The set-up: Texas closed out a series with Cleveland over the weekend, while the A's were at home in an inter-league matchup with the Giants. On paper it would appear as if these starters are evenly matched, but I think Cole Hamels has the slight advantage at home. The visitors go with the erratic Brett Anderson.

The pitchers: Anderson is so far 1-2 with a 6.08 ERA. In his final start before the All Star game he'd give up three runs over 3.1 innings to San Francisco in what turned out to be a no-decision. Anderson has how now managed to throw six innings only once in six trips to the hill this season (owns a poor 1.86 WHIP over 23.2 innings).

Hamels is so far 5-8 with a 4.36 ERA. In his final start before the All Star game he'd give up four runs over 6.1 innings in a victory over the Orioles. Hamels admittedly struggled over his final three starts, but the break comes at a great time for the veteran and I believe the southpaw responds here with the extra time off (is 5-2 with a 2.93 ERA in all "night" games YTD.)

The pick: Hamels is the correct call here in my opinion. The veteran gets back on track in his first start in the second half, while I predict Anderson's inconsistencies get carried over in this difficult venue. Play on the Rangers.