Los Angeles Angels (57-48) at Texas Rangers (60-43)
Betting Line: Rangers -125, Total -115 Over 10 Runs
Game Time 8:05PM ET from Rangers Ballpark in Arlington
Pitching Matchup: C.J. Wilson versus Ryan Dempster

The betting board in Major League Baseball for this Thursday, August 2nd is a little light, but there is one game that sticks out for several reasons, and that is the matchup between A.L. West rivals – the Los Angeles Angels and Texas Rangers.

First Ryan Dempter is making his much anticipated pitching debut for the Rangers after they acquired him minutes before the trade deadline expired less than 48 hours ago.

And the second reason is obvious – both of these clubs have positioned themselves for a postseason run and more importantly and A.L. West Division crown; and tonight the Angels can close the gap with a win or it will be the Rangers expanding on their division lead if they come away with a victory.

This will be a great game to watch, bet and win money on, but before we make a play let’s take a look at the positives and negatives for both clubs entering tonight’s matchup.

Positive for the Angels
13-5 in their last 18 games versus teams in their own division.
4-1 in their last 5 games after losing their previous outing.
4-0 when Wilson takes the hill in their last 4 games versus the A.L. West.

Negatives for the Angels
3-7 record in their last 10 games played on a Thursday.
3-8 in their last 11 road games when facing a righty.
0-4 in Wilson’s last 4 starts against a team with a winning record.

Positives for the Rangers
66-32 in their last 98 home games when listed as the favorite.
44-20 in their last 64 games when the total is set a 9 runs or more.
18-8 in their last 26 home games when facing a team with a winning record.

Negatives for the Rangers
1-4 in their last 5 games played on a Thursday.
1-6 in their last 7 games versus a lefty.
0-5 in their last 5 games after winning their previous outing.

PJ Laferla is a practicing freelance writer, professional handicapper, and the founder of SportsInput.com. If you are interested in hiring PJ Laferla for freelance writing or for winning picks against the spread, please submit all inquires to PJ@sportsinput.com.