Rangers vs Cardinals Preview: Big Pitches Lead Week 62

The Texas Rangers roll into Busch Stadium riding a three-game winning streak. They're 28-31 overall, but they've won four of their last ten games. This team needs every win they can grab. Jacob deGrom takes the mound for Texas—the Rangers' ace who can still dominate when he's on. St. Louis counters with Michael McGreevy. The Cardinals sit at 31-26, one game ahead of Texas in the standings. Monday's matchup kicks off what could be a tight series between two teams fighting for their playoff lives.

Texas has injury trouble at the worst moment. Star shortstop Corey Seager is on the injured list with a back injury—he won't play until at least June 4. Left fielder Wyatt Langford is working his way back from a forearm injury. Center fielder Evan Carter got hit by a pitch and is dealing with foot soreness. The Rangers need these guys healthy and back in the lineup fast. Every game matters when you're fighting to stay in the race, and playing without your best players makes winning even harder.

St. Louis's pitching is built on youth and promise. Matthew Liberatore and Dustin May carry major responsibility in the rotation—both still developing but full of talent. The Cardinals don't have a proven ace like deGrom. Instead, they win by getting solid starts from multiple pitchers and trusting their young guys. Riley O'Brien gets the first shot as closer. St. Louis is 31-26 but just 1-3 in their last ten games. Monday is a chance to start climbing back into the playoff picture with a big home win.