By Noah Shelton @SheltonOKC

Arlington – The Rangers and Astros are in full rivalry mode. Last year’s AL West title race was tight between the two Texas teams, but eventually the Rangers emerged as best in the West.

After the first rainout since May of 2013, the longest streak in the league, Derek Holland will take the mound against former Rangers’ teammate Scott Feldman. Holland had a decent showing last week against the Mariners, but the defense was arguably his savior. And we all know of Holland’s inconsistencies. It’s nearly impossible to predict a game that involves the Dutch Oven. If the Rangers are down early tonight, history tells us Holland will struggle.

The good news, Carlos Correa is the only batter for the Astros to have any significant success against Holland on 4 hits in 5 at-bats with 2 home runs. If a save situation arises tonight, feel confident. The Astros as a whole are only batting .162 against the inconsistent Rangers’ closer Shawn Tolleson.

The Astros have not performed well when Feldman is pitching in recent history. The team has lost 4 consecutive games under the former Ranger. Adding to this negative, the Astros are off to a disappointing start to the season at 5-8. However, the team arrives in Arlington after seeing a glimmer of success by taking two of three games in a series against Detroit (7-4) to end a seven game home stand.

The Rangers seem to have the advantage going into tonight. The bats have been doing damage on the ground even without much aid from the deep ball. The Rangers are also holding onto a 7-0 home winning streak against the Astros, dating back to last season. Expect a great atmosphere tonight. Rivalry is in the air.

Rangers’ batting streaks to think about during the game:

• Elvis Andrus is on a 5 game hitting streak.
• Delino DeShield is on a 5 game hitting streak.
• Mitch Moreland is on 3 game hitting and RBI streak.
• Rougned Odor is on a 3 game hitting streak.
• Nomar Mazara is on a 3 game hitting and RBI streak. Hasn’t struck out in 4 games.