Texas (37-39) at Pittsburgh (30-47)
- When: Jun 21 2025, 4:05 PM
- Where: PNC Park, Pittsburgh
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Rangers vs. Pirates – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: Pittsburgh -111 | Total: 8.5
Texas Rangers Betting Preview
The Rangers are hoping lightning can strike twice for Kumar Rocker. After a rocky start to his MLB debut season, including a rough return from a shoulder injury, Rocker finally looked like the high-draft pick Texas expected, blanking the White Sox over five innings while guzzling pickle juice like it was Gatorade. He struck out six and issued just one walk, a huge turnaround from the 8.87 ERA that had followed him like a dark cloud. Now, with the rotation thin and pressure mounting, Texas is looking to build momentum behind their rookie on the road in Pittsburgh.
But even with that promising outing, bettors should tread carefully, Rocker is still inconsistent, and this will be his first career appearance against the Pirates.
Pittsburgh Pirates Betting Preview
Pittsburgh has Mitch Keller toeing the rubber, and although the 2023 All-Star is pitching better than his 1-9 record suggests, wins have been hard to come by. He’s delivered 10 quality starts in his last 14 outings, but the Pirates are just 2-12 in that span. The run support? Practically nonexistent. Despite holding opposing teams to three runs or fewer in back-to-back starts, Pittsburgh has lost both games by a single run.
Historically, Keller’s had Texas’ number. In his only appearance against the Rangers last season, he tossed seven shutout innings, striking out nine in a 4-0 win. That might give the Pirates a slight edge, if their bats can just show up.
Prediction:
With Texas trending upward after Rocker’s best showing and the Pirates continuing to waste solid outings from Keller, this game shapes up to be tight. Both teams are unreliable offensively, and while Pittsburgh might be due, it’s hard to bet against a team with more momentum.
Score Prediction: Rangers 4, Pirates 3
Pick: Texas ML (-105)
Total: Under 8.5 (-111)
Look for the under to be in play at 8.5, and consider fading the Pirates in close matchups until they show they can actually close.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
