Kaz on track: In his most recent start, Kazmir made a successful return from the disabled list Saturday against the Marlins, with the two runs and four hits allowed being his fewest since April 24. Kazmir, who was on the DL to rehab a right quad strain and rework his mechanics, never has lost to the Rangers, going 4-0 in seven starts with a 2.09 ERA, his second-lowest ERA against any AL opponent.
On the spot: Hunter has made two spot starts this season, giving up a combined five runs. He is 0-3 with a 9.93 ERA in five starts at the major-league level in the past two seasons.
Key matchups
vs. Kazmir
Kinsler 2-for-13, HR
Young 2-for-13
Blalock 0-for-6
Murphy 1-for-6
Vs. hunter
Never has faced the Rays
On deck
Saturday: at Rangers, 8:05, Sun Sports. Rays — David Price (2-2, 3.93); Rangers — Derek Holland (1-5, 6.20)
Sunday: at Rangers, 8:05, ESPN. Rays — Jeff Niemann (7-4, 3.95); Rangers — Scott Feldman (6-2, 4.09)
Monday: Off
Joe Smith, Times staff writer
Fast friends
Carl Crawford, who leads the majors in steals with 40, is friends with the National League leader, Michael Bourn (26) of the Astros. The two grew up in Houston and played youth baseball together, with Bourn's father, Raymond, a coach. Crawford said they often keep in touch. "He's like my little brother," Crawford said.
Quote of the day
"With them two guys up there, I wouln't mind hitting third."
Rays hitting coach Steve Henderson on how well B.J. Upton and Carl Crawford are doing atop the order.
Quote of the day
"With them two guys up there, I wouldn't mind hitting third."
Steve Henderson, Rays hitting coach, on how well B.J. Upton and Carl Crawford are doing atop the order
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