Texas Rangers: Can Nick Martinez Follow Strong Outing vs. Halos?

A door has opened up for pitcher Nick Martinez after A.J. Griffin headed to the disabled list. He was impressive in his first outing of the first season, but will that continue against the Angels on Friday?

It looks like the Texas Rangers will give Nick Martinez at least one more start against the Halos. Starter A.J. Griffin is recovering from inflammation in his left ankle, but should be ready for his next start.

The 26-year-old Martinez will get the start against left-handed Tyler Skaggs on Friday. Griffin will pitch Friday as well, but it will be a rehab assignment in Triple-A Round Rock. According to T.R. Sullivan, manager Jeff Banister believes Martinez will continue to contribute.

“We want to make sure ‘Griff’ is back in pitching mode and healthy,” Rangers manager Jeff Banister said. “We have Nick here. He threw the ball well last time. It allows us to be conservative with A.J.”

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On Saturday, Martinez stepped in for Griffin and allowed one earned run, on four hits, in seven innings against the Mariners. According to T.R. Sulllivan, Martinez is 2-3 with a 2.51 ERA in eight career appearances, six starts, totaling 43 innings against the Angels.

The good news for the Rangers is that Skaggs has been horrendous against Texas in the past. He is 2-1 with a 6.20 ERA in five career starts against the Rangers. The last time Skaggs started against Texas he allowed five runs in five innings.

This might be Martinez last start for April, but a good outing on Friday could mean more opportunities later in the season.