The Texas Rangers return to Globe Life Field on Tuesday, July 21, to host the Chicago White Sox in a 8:05 PM ET first pitch. Kumar Rocker gets the start for Texas against Chicago's Noah Schultz in what figures to be an intriguing pitching matchup between two young arms working to carve out their places in the big league rotation. It's a midseason home date that matters — every win in the standings counts, and the Rangers will be looking to take care of business in front of their home crowd in Arlington.

Probable Starters: Kumar Rocker vs. Noah Schultz

Rocker takes the ball for the Rangers in what remains one of the more compelling storylines in the Texas rotation. The hard-throwing right-hander has the kind of stuff that generates buzz, and every start is a chance to build on the work he has put in. The Rangers will want to see him attack hitters early, limit free passes, and give the lineup a chance to do damage against a White Sox club that has had its struggles this season.

Schultz gets the nod for Chicago. The left-hander is a young pitcher working to establish himself at the major league level. Texas hitters will look to test him early, work counts, and take advantage of any command issues. The Rangers' lineup has the ability to punish mistakes, and making Schultz throw a lot of pitches deep into at-bats is a sound approach.

Keys to Watch for the Texas Rangers

• Rocker's command: Walks are the enemy for any starting pitcher, and keeping the White Sox off the bases for free will be critical to a strong outing. If Rocker is hitting his spots and working ahead in counts, Texas should be in good shape deep into the game.
• Lineup discipline against Schultz: Left-handed pitchers can give lineups fits when their stuff is working. The Rangers need to stay disciplined, work the count, and not chase early in at-bats.
• Bullpen availability: Where the Rangers' relief corps stands coming into this one will shape how long Rocker is asked to go. A clean start through six-plus innings would be ideal to keep the 'pen fresh.
• Home-field energy: Globe Life Field gives Texas a genuine edge. The Rangers play better baseball in Arlington, and the crowd can be a factor in close situations late in the game.

Broadcast Information

Rangers fans in the Dallas-Fort Worth area can catch the game on Rangers Sports Network, presented by Progressive, or listen on 105.3 The Fan. Spanish-language coverage is available on KFLC 1270 AM. Chicago-area fans can tune in to Chicago Sports Network or ESPN Chicago WMVP 1000 AM.

Prediction

This one comes down to how sharp Rocker is from the first inning. If he's commanding his fastball and keeping Chicago off-balance, the Rangers offense should provide enough run support to take care of business at home. Globe Life Field has been a tough environment for opponents, and Texas has the edge in this matchup. Rangers win, 5-2.