Texas Rangers

Phil Hughes, Twins have history of success vs. Rangers

Published Apr. 24, 2017 1:42 p.m. ET

Minnesota Twins pitcher Phil Hughes has a 2.92 ERA in 52 1/3 innings pitched against the Texas Rangers.

The Minnesota Twins may be struggling after jumping out to an early lead in the Central Division, but a date with the Texas Rangers may be the key to getting back on track.

The Twins averaged battered the Rangers last season, averaging 8.86 runs per game, their highest scoring totals against a single team since the 2006 season.

Season	Opponent	Runs/Game
2016	Rangers	8.86
2006	Brewers	8.67
1994	Tigers	8.00
1996	Tigers	7.67
1994	Red Sox	7.44

The Rangers could still match them run for run.

Led by outfielder Joey Gallo, Texas has seven players with at least three home runs -- a figure that leads the league -- and enters the series on a four-game tear after sweeping the Kansas City Royals.

Starting pitcher Phil Hughes will be tasked with holding Gallo and the Rangers in check in the series opener.

Fortunately, he has a history of keeping the score down against Texas.

Hughes has a 2.92 ERA in 52 1/3 innings pitched against the Rangers, his second-lowest ERA against a single opponent.