World Series Game 3: Rangers vs. Diamondbacks - A Battle for Control

caleb tallman
By:
Caleb Tallman
10/30/2023
MLB
MLB News

Highlights

  • World Series Game 3 - Rangers vs. Diamondbacks.
  • Crucial battle for series control.
  • Pitching duel and explosive bats in an exhilarating showdown.

The World Series has reached a pivotal juncture as the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks are locked at 1-1 in the series. Pennsylvania bettors may be disappointed that the Phillies are not playing, but PA online sportsbooks have great odds on the World Series.

The first two games have offered baseball fans a thrilling display of talent, drama, and unpredictability. In Game 1, the Rangers pulled off an incredible ninth-inning comeback with a home run to force extra innings, ultimately clinching victory in the 11th inning with a walk-off hit.

However, in Game 2, the Diamondbacks retaliated with an impressive 9-1 victory, setting the stage for an electrifying Game 3. As the series shifts to Arizona, the teams prepare for what promises to be another epic battle at Chase Field.

Heading into Game 3

The Texas Rangers are counting on Max Scherzer, a veteran of the playoffs, to deliver a strong performance on the mound. Scherzer had a mixed start to the postseason, but the Rangers are hopeful that he will continue to improve with each appearance as he recovers from an injury.

On the other side, the Diamondbacks are sending Brandon Pfaadt to the mound. Pfaadt has been instrumental in Arizona's playoff success, contributing to the team's victories in every one of his four playoff appearances. Notably, in the NLCS Game 7, Pfaadt pitched four solid innings and struck out seven, demonstrating his reliability in high-pressure situations.

World Series Game 3 Odds

The odds for Game 3 reflect the ongoing rivalry and the evenly matched nature of the series.

Texas initially held the favor in the odds but lost some ground after Arizona's victory in Game 2. The winner of Game 3 is expected to become the favorite to win the World Series, making this matchup a pivotal turning point in the series.

Team

Rangers

Dbacks

Spread 

-1.5 (+136)

+1.5 (-164)

Moneyline 

-104

-112

Run Total

Over 9 runs (-112)

Under 9 runs (-108)

Odds via FanDuel PA Sportsbook

Challenges for the Texas Rangers

The Rangers are aware that they need to address their pitching issues to remain competitive in the World Series. While their offense saved them in Game 1, they struggled to keep up with Arizona's scoring pace in Game 2.

Allowing five or more runs in the first two games is a cause for concern, as consistent deficits in runs make it challenging to secure the championship. Max Scherzer, an experienced playoff pitcher, takes the mound for Game 3, offering hope for a vintage performance that could turn the tide in the series.

Challenges for the Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks have demonstrated their prowess in the World Series, bouncing back with a convincing victory in Game 2 after a heartbreaking loss in Game 1.

Their confidence remains high heading into Game 3, buoyed by Brandon Pfaadt's impressive playoff performance. Pfaadt has maintained a 2.70 ERA with 22 strikeouts in just 16.2 innings of playoff pitching, showcasing his reliability and skill on the mound.

One key aspect of the Diamondbacks' success is their well-rounded team performance. The Arizona offense has been explosive, accumulating 14 runs in the first two games of the World Series.

 In Game 2, every starter contributed at least one hit, emphasizing the team's collective effort. While they may not match the Rangers in power pitching and home run hitting, the Diamondbacks' superior teamwork is helping them outshine their opponents.

World Series Game 3 Key Factors

Game 3 is expected to have a relatively slow start offensively, with Scherzer and Pfaadt likely keeping the game scoreless through the early innings. However, as the game progresses and the teams turn to their bullpens, the Diamondbacks are anticipated to seize the moment with their explosive bats.

The result is a Game 3 victory that will position Arizona to take control of the series, bringing them one step closer to clinching the Commissioner's trophy.

The World Series is finely poised at 1-1 as the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks prepare to face off in Game 3. With contrasting strengths and challenges, the teams are determined to gain the upper hand in this crucial matchup.

As the series unfolds, baseball fans can expect an exhilarating clash at Chase Field, where only one team will inch closer to the ultimate prize.

A huge sports fan; locally, many know me as the guy who does the PA for our high school football team on Friday nights. Having grown up in Michigan, I am a sports fan of all the Detroit teams, and at the college level, I love Michigan State sports. I have covered sports betting, iGaming and casino industry news for many well known websites.