Game 129 Open Thread - Royals vs. Rangers

The Kansas City Royals will attempt to complete a three-game sweep over the Texas Rangers at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Sunday.

Jason Vargas will take the mound for the Royals. Vargas enters the game with a 3.17 ERA and a 3.81 FIP. His 4.9% BB% has helped fuel his success this year, but his .281 BABIP suggests that the Royals defense has also played a major role in his improved run prevention. The southpaw has been succeptible to homers in the past, so pitching in Rangers Ballpark is not ideal.

Sott Baker will receive the start for the Rangers. Baker, who should be familiar to Roayals fans from his days with the Minnesota Twins, has made four starts this season along with 17 appearances out of the bullpen. The veteran has posted a 5.75 ERA with a 4.28 FIP. Most of Baker's problems have been with runners on base; he owns a higher K% and lower BB% than Vargas, but his 58.4% LOB% is disastrous.

I will be driving back from Tulsa, Oklahoma when the lineups are posted, but it will be interesting to see if Salvador Perez is in the lineup. I'm all for giving Perez as much rest as he needs, no reason to rush back one of the team's most important players.

As always, Go Royals and F@#! Detroit.