Five Bold Predictions for the Texas Rangers’ Pitching Staff in 2014

2. Alexi Ogando gets ten starts before  the All Star break but fewer than five after.

Sep 27, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Alexi Ogando (41) delivers a pitch to the Los Angeles Angels during the first inning of a baseball game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports

Ogando has a pattern. He starts out nicely; sometimes nice enough to make the All Star game, and then gets injured in the second half. This prediction is based on Ogando’s health history and also a prediction that Jon Daniels will acquire a starting pitcher at the deadline. This will put Ogando back in the pen where he can stay healthy. Texas will not be able to ride Ogando through the second half. He is going to have to be replaced part way through the season.