The Texas Rangers and the Oakland Athletics are neck and neck in the American League West, each sitting at 9-8 as they prepare for the third game of their four-game showdown at Sutter Health Park. It’s a gripping race to watch, with both teams vying for the top spot in their division.

As we head into Wednesday’s clash, the Los Angeles Angels are nipping at their heels with a 9-9 record, just half a game behind. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners, at 8-10, trail by 1.5 games, and the Houston Astros, plagued by pitching injuries, find themselves at 7-11, 2.5 games back. The competitive spirit is alive and well in the AL West, with every game holding significant weight.

In Tuesday’s matchup, the Rangers fell to the Athletics 2-1, managing only four hits. Jake Burger was the lone bright spot offensively, driving in Texas’ only run with an RBI hit. Burger has been a standout performer for the Rangers in this series, having blasted two home runs in their opening victory on Monday.

The Rangers have been tinkering with their lineup, notably swapping Seager and Langford in the Nos. 2 and 3 spots. Langford, who has been struggling, went 0-for-3 in the previous game, prompting the Rangers to seek a better offensive rhythm. With this change, Texas aims to capitalize on Nimmo’s presence at the top, especially against a right-handed pitcher, by starting with two lefties.

Jake Burger is taking a breather, allowing Evan Carter to step into the clean-up role. Another intriguing development is Joc Pederson’s debut at first base this season, adding another lefty to the mix.

This lineup shuffling results in four left-handed hitters in the top five spots. Smith returns to the lineup after a night off, and Duran takes over left field duties from Langford.

Third baseman Josh Jung, batting sixth, is someone to keep an eye on. He’s been on a tear recently, posting a .381/.458/.524 slash line over his last seven games, with two RBIs and a solid on-base streak in April. His batting average has climbed significantly, showcasing his improving form.

On the mound, the Rangers will send right-hander Kumar Rocker (0-1, 4.50 ERA) to face the Athletics’ right-hander J.T. Ginn (0-0, 3.27 ERA).

Fans can catch the game on Rangers Sports Network or stream it on Victory+, while Athletics supporters can tune in via NBC Sports Bay Area+. As the series unfolds, both teams will be looking to gain the upper hand in this fiercely contested division.