Nick Tepesch making his first 2014 start

Jul 5, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Nick Tepesch (49) hands the ball over to manager Ron Washington (38) during the sixth inning against the Houston Astros at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports

Texas Rangers RHP Nick Tepesch will make his first of the 2014 season tonight against the Houston Astros.  This will probably be the first of many for Tepesch if things go well or even decent for him.

Starting rotation banged up: Nick Tepesch was called up from triple-A Round Rock to cover for Martin Perez who was placed on the 15-day disabled list with elbow inflammation.  That is the same reason that Tanner Scheppers was placed on the disabled list almost a month ago.  If that is any indication of how long Perez will be gone, the expect Tepesch to be in the starting rotation for the next month to month and half.

Also, it seems likely that Matt Harrison will also be placed on the disabled list with back stiffness.  He was scheduled for an MRI today, but it speculated that even if there is nothing found the Rangers will skip a few starts to give him some rest.

Robbie Ross Jr. is another starter that might not make his next start either.  Ross has had several bad outings, his last outing it appeared he might not make it out of the 4 inning, but he was able to get out of several jams and was backed up by a very solid defense.

2013: In 2013 he had a record of 4 and 6 with an ERA of 4.84.  He managed to strike out 76 and only walked 27.   Last season his best month was in April when he had a record of 2 and 1 with an ERA of 2.53.

Spring training: When spring training started many thought he would be in the Texas Rangers starting rotation, especially since it was filled with injures and setbacks.  But Tepesch struggled over his 3 games/8.0 innings posting an ERA of 11.25 and only struck out 2.

Triple-A:  He struggled in spring training, but with the Round Rock Express he has managed to work things out and return to the form he had in 2013 when he was with the Rangers.  Over 7 games/45.2 innings he has a record of 6-1 with an ERA of 1.58, 41 strike outs and allowed 9 walks.

Tepesch has averaged 6 innings per start in the minors, which is rarity.  That does show he’s been steady and has been reliable.   Tepesch also has a very good opposing batting line of  .207/.258/.264.  

How will he do: It is hard to tell how his stats will translate against major league hitters.  For Tepesch, at least he’s being eased in it against the Houston Astros.  Although they shouldn’t be taken for granted.  The Astros are good club and are able to hit the ball well.  For the Rangers they are hoping he does well and is able to stay in the rotation for the foreseeable future.