The Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks will meet on Wednesday, November 1st, 2023 (6:00 PM ET/Game 5). The game represents the first one of the 2023 MLB playoffs where the World Series could be clinched. Texas is up 3-1 as they zero in on what would be the franchise's first Major League Baseball championship. My Rangers vs Diamondbacks prediction is that Arizona either wins or loses this game by just a one-run spread. Accordingly, I am looking at game handicaps for Game 5 of the 2023 World Series.
Texas vs Arizona Prediction: Latest MLB Headlines
The Rangers did not have any significant trouble in Game 4 on Tuesday night. They jumped out to a quick lead in the game and then nursed it to victory. They gave up some runs in the late innings. However, at that point, the game was already at hand. Marcus Semien had a five-RBI performance in the game, which included a home run.
Starting Pitching: Nathan Eovaldi vs Zac Gallen
The pitching matchup for Game 5 of the 2023 World Series is a familiar one. Nathan Eovaldi will start for the Texas Rangers. The Arizona Diamondbacks will send out their ace in hopes of prolonging the series, Zac Gallen. Eovaldi is 4-0 in the playoffs while Gallen has not had memorable performances.
Gallen has surrendered 16 earned runs in 27.1 innings pitched in the 2023 MLB playoffs. In his last outing, he yielded three runs in five innings. The game was one that Arizona could have won. However, the late-inning dramatics belonged to the Rangers' hitters. What can't be ignored about Gallen is that he has given up 41 walks + hits in just 27.1 innings pitched in the playoffs.
Arizona needs a turnaround out of their ace. Maybe it will help that he will be playing in just his second home game in the playoffs. Most of his starts have been on the road. However, the Phillies did touch him up in the NLCS in a game from Phoenix.
Rangers vs Diamondbacks Prediction: Betting Tips
Bettors should be expecting a short leash for Arizona's starter. However, if Eovaldi gets in trouble, there's a chance that he is given the pitch count to work things out. Texas can fall back on two home games to conclude the World Series. You have to think that they will play this game to win -- but not expense of their bullpen. Meanwhile, Arizona is just in an "all hands on deck" situation.
If Gallen isn't sharp, then he will likely be pulled and Arizona will use their bullpen extensively if need be, hoping that their other starters can carry a big load in Games 6 and/or Game 7 -- if the series continues. My recommendation is to take the handicap on the Diamondbacks at -175 (+1.5) (bet365). I think a run helps Arizona a lot in this situation.
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