Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
On July 26, Martin Perez only pitched three innings and gave up seven runs to the Cleveland Indians. The Texas Rangers came back and tied the game so there was a no decision for Perez, but it was the third straight time in which Texas lost a game he started.
Since that night in Cleveland though, Perez has been a different pitcher. In his last four starts since that game, Perez has given up seven runs combined to the Los Angeles Angels, Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners – all Rangers wins. His latest victory came against his idol Felix Hernandez as the Rangers defeated the Mariners 15-3.
In the victory, Perez went seven innings while allowing only three runs. With Alexi Ogando having more health problems, Perez is doing a good job of making a case for the fourth spot in the rotation should the Rangers make the postseason. Most teams dwindle down from a five-man rotation to four once the playoffs start. Yu Darvish, Derek Holland and Matt Garza have the top three spots locked down, barring injury.
That leaves only the fourth position. Throw Perez into the rotation, and you have a foursome that could shut down any lineup on any given night. I know there’s a lot of baseball to be played, but Ron Washington has to be looking at the potential starters for playoff time. Inserting Perez and his left-handed arm into the lineup may be exactly what puts this team over the top.
Greg Higgins is a MLB contributor for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter: @greghiggins457, Like him on Facebook and add him to your network on Google.
