Dane Dunning will take the mound for the Rangers to open this interleague series with the Dodgers on Tuesday night. It's time to continue our MLB odds series with a team-team prediction and pick.

Rangers-Rays Projected Starters 

Dane Dunning vs. James Paxton

Dane Dunning (4-4) with a 4.09 ERA and 1.18 WHIP

Last Start: Dane Dunning didn't factor into the decision in his last start on Tuesday. He allowed three runs on four hits and on walk across five innings against the Tigers striking out four.

2024 Road Splits: Dane Dunning has been solid on the road with a 2-1 record in 5 starts. He has a 4.44 ERA, 1.27 WHIP with 23 strikeouts in 24.1 innings giving up a batting average of .216.

James Paxton (5-1) with a 4.19 ERA and 1.49 WHIP

Last Start: In James Paxton's last start he took the loss, coughing up seven runs (six earned) and two walks across just 1.2 innings pitched against the Pittsburgh Pirates while striking out two.

2024 Home Splits: James Paxton has shown to be the ace that we all know he can be when he plays at Dodger Stadium. He has a 2-0 record in 4 home starts with a 2.78 ERA while giving up a .238 batting average.

Here are the MLB Odds, courtesy of FanDuel. 

MLB Odds: Rangers-Dodgers Odds

Texas Rangers: +1.5 (-182)

Moneyline: +126

Los Angeles Dodgers: -1.5 (+150)

Moneyline: -148

Over: 9 (-105)

Under: 9 (-115)

How to Watch Rangers vs. Dodgers

Time: 10:10 PM ET/7:10 PM PT

TV: Bally Sports Southwest, Spectrum SportsNet, MLB Extra Innings

Stream: fuboTV (Click for free trial)

Why The Rangers Will Cover The Spread/Win

As the Texas Rangers prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night, the pitching duel between Dane Dunning and James Paxton will be a key factor.

Dane Dunning has been a reliable arm for the Rangers this season, posting a 4.09 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP over 70.1 innings pitched. His ability to limit walks and induce ground balls has been crucial in keeping opposing offenses in check. Dunning’s recent outings have been particularly impressive, including a seven-inning shutout performance against the Angels where he struck out seven and allowed only three hits. His command and control will be vital against a potent Dodgers lineup.

The Rangers' offense has been one of the most productive in the league, with key players like Adolis García and Corey Seager leading the charge. García, in particular, has been a standout, providing both power and speed. The Rangers' ability to manufacture runs and apply pressure on opposing pitchers will be crucial against James Paxton, who has shown vulnerability this season with a 4.19 ERA and a 1.49 WHIP. The Rangers' lineup is well-equipped to exploit any mistakes Paxton might make.

James Paxton, while having moments of brilliance, has struggled with consistency this season. His 4.19 ERA and 1.49 WHIP indicate that he has had difficulty maintaining control and limiting baserunners. Paxton’s recent outings have been a mixed bag, including a game where he allowed seven runs (six earned) over just 1.2 innings against the Pirates. The Rangers' disciplined approach at the plate could force Paxton into high pitch counts and early exits.

Dunning’s consistent performance, the Rangers' offensive firepower, and Paxton’s inconsistencies sets the stage for a Texas victory. Dunning’s command and the Rangers' ability to capitalize on Paxton’s vulnerabilities position them well to triumph over the Dodgers on Tuesday night.

Why The Dodgers Will Cover The Spread/Win

James Paxton, despite some inconsistencies this season, has the potential to deliver a dominant performance. Known for his high strikeout rate and ability to overpower hitters, Paxton has shown flashes of brilliance, including a game where he struck out 11 over six innings against the Padres. His fastball, which can reach the upper 90s, combined with a devastating curveball, makes him a formidable opponent. Pitching at home, where he has historically performed better, could provide the boost he needs to stifle the Rangers' offense.

Playing at Dodger Stadium provides a significant edge for Los Angeles. The Dodgers have a strong home record, and the familiar environment can provide a morale boost for Paxton and the entire team. The Dodgers' lineup tends to perform better at home, with key players like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman finding their stride in front of the home crowd. The support of the fans can be a crucial factor in close games.

The Rangers have had their share of struggles on the road this season. Their offense, while potent, has been less effective away from Globe Life Field. Key hitters like Adolis García and Corey Seager have seen dips in their performance on the road, which Paxton’s high strikeout potential could exploit. The Rangers' tendency to be more aggressive at the plate could play into Paxton’s strengths, leading to more strikeouts and fewer scoring opportunities.

The Dodgers boast one of the deepest lineups in baseball, with contributions coming from up and down the order. Players like Max Muncy and Will Smith provide power and consistency, making it difficult for opposing pitchers to navigate the lineup without encountering threats. Dane Dunning, while effective, will face a tough challenge against a Dodgers lineup that excels at working counts and capitalizing on mistakes.

Paxton’s potential for dominance, the Dodgers' home-field advantage, and the Rangers' road struggles set the stage for a Los Angeles victory. Paxton’s ability to overpower hitters and the Dodgers' deep lineup position them well to triumph over Dane Dunning and the Rangers on Tuesday night.

Final Rangers-Dodgers Prediction & Pick

This should be a good matchup to cap the night on Tuesday when the Texas Rangers come to town to take on the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers were able to take two of three from the New York Yankees on the road putting them in a prime position to keep their momentum going heading back home. While Paxton is coming off his worst and shortest game of the season, he should have a good chance at rebounding on Tuesday night. Ultimately, expect this game to be a pitcher's duel throughout with the Dodgers just doing enough to get the win in their home stadium.

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Final Rangers-Dodgers Prediction & Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers (148), Under 9 (-115)