BALTIMORE, Md. -- The second game of this series will feature a pair of young left-handers trying to make their mark as Martin Perez takes the mound for the Texas Rangers against Zach Britton and the Baltimore Orioles. Game time is 6:05 p.m. on FSSW and ESPN Dallas 103.3 FM (Deportes 1540 AM).
Perez (2-1, 1.85 ERA): The left-hander is 2-0 with an 0.95 ERA in three starts since his second recall of the season. ... Perez, 22, gave up only two earned runs in 19 innings in those outings. ... He hasn’t given up an earned run in his last 17 innings pitches. ... Perez had a no-decision in his last start Thursday vs. Seattle, allowing one unearned run on eight hits in 5 â…“ innings. ... He’s gone at least five innings and allowed two or less runs in three consecutive starts, which is tied for third-best by a Rangers pitcher this season. Perez has never faced the Orioles.
Britton (2-2, 4.03): Britton is fighting for a spot in an already crowded Baltimore starting rotation. ... The 25-year old left-hander is coming off of his best start of the season, a solid seven-inning effort against the White Sox on July 4 where he gave up two runs on six hits in seven innings -- but got a no-decision. ... He’s made four starts since being recalled, improving in each one. ... Britton has made only one career start against the Rangers, throwing 7 â…” scoreless innings to win on April 9, 2011.
Hitters: The Rangers haven’t seen much of Britton. Nelson Cruz is the only Ranger with a hit, and he’s 1-for-2 with a run scored. Alexi Casilla is the lone Oriole to hit against Perez, and the second baseman is 0-for-2.
