The set-up: Texas has fallen off the map in the pursuit of a wild card spot and if Oakland isn't careful, it will also follow suit. The A's return home to take on Texas, who sits 6.5 games behind them in the division. Oakland has to be feeling confident though as it's already 6-3 so far in this season series. The visitors hand the ball to the erratic Ariel Jurado, while the home side counters with Brett Anderson.

The pitchers: Jurado (5-6, 4.92 ERA) is 0-2 with a 12.79 ERA in two lifetime appearances vs. Oakland. Overall it's been a difficult year for Jurado, but note that he's been at his best on the road funnily enough, going 3-2 with a respectable 4.12 ERA thus far.

Anderson (9-5, 3.82) has had varying success vs. the Rangers throughout his career, but he comes back rested after a paternity leave from the birth of his son. Note that Anderson has been at his best in all "night" game as well so far this season, going 7-2 with a 2.89 ERA.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Texas has seen the total go under the number in ten of its last 15 as a road dog of +150 or higher, while Oakland has seen the total dip under in 25 of 39 this year vs. clubs with winning records. I think this number is just a little high.

Texas Rangers/Oakland A's under 8* play