This is a 1* FREE PLAY on the Athletics.

The A's played a double-header against the Tigers yesterday, winning 5-0 and falling 7-2.

The Rangers won 8-0 at Miami.

Spencer Howard though is just 1-1 with a 6.97 ERA for the Rangers. After flying 3,000 miles to start an 11-game Western swing, we think Texas could come out flat here in the opener of this series.

Cole Irvin is 4-7 with a 3.21 ERA for the A's and he's 3-2 with a 3.35 ERA in seven career starts vs. the Rangers.

Yes, the Rangers could be buyers at the trade deadline this year, while the A's look destined to be sellers, but we think this is great value on the superiors starting pitcher in this matchup.

Consider OAKLAND on Friday night.

Good luck, NP