Dane Dunning, Texas Rangers Going for Mariners Series Win

Dane Dunning is making his second start for the Texas Rangers in place of injured ace Jacob deGrom on Wednesday at the Seattle Mariners.

Dane Dunning gets another moment in the sun as the Texas Rangers starting pitcher on Wednesday in the series finale with Seattle Mariners.

The American League West-leading Rangers (21-14) are going for their first consecutive series win within the division. Texas and the Mariners (18-18) have split the first two games.

The Rangers did not list their probable starter before Tuesday’s game. However, Dunning (2-0, 1.42) was referred to as the starter during and after the broadcast of Tuesday's 5-0 loss to Seattle. 

The Mariners will send Luis Castillo (2-0, 2.38) to the hill. First pitch is scheduled for 2:40 p.m. CT.

Dunning was the likely selection after Friday's sharp outing in place of Jacob deGrom, who is on the injured list with right elbow inflammation.

Dunning's start may be his last before the Rangers return to Arlington for a homestand next week. But he may be in the rotation for the foreseeable future. deGrom may miss another “two or three weeks,” according to manager Bruce Bochy.

The Rangers lost Dunning’s first start at the Los Angeles Angels, 5-4 in 10 innings, but it had nothing to do with the spot starter’s performance.

Dunning threw five shutout innings, giving up two hits and a walk while striking out three. He left the game with a 3-0 lead, which the bullpen lost in the late innings.

He also threw 72 pitches. That was Dunning’s highest pitch total of the season.

Before the start he threw 60 or more pitches twice in relief. He also had a 52-pitch appearance on April 28 as he replaced deGrom. But the rest of his appearances featured 35 pitches or fewer.

Given the Rangers inconsistent bullpen, Dunning may have to throw more than five innings Wednesday. The club will want to ensure he’s stretched out properly, as he would be throwing on a starter’s normal five days’ rest. He had six days off before his start against the Angels.

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