There’s an old saying that players end up performing to the back of their baseball cards.

Numbers don’t lie.

They might fib from time to time, but they don’t lie. A .220 hitter is a .220 hitter whether he’s hitting .350 right now or .100. 

Before last night, Mike Foltynewicz was a career 4.33 ERA pitcher. He was 44-44. 

So, when the Rangers announcers were falling all over themselves at how well Folty was pitching after two innings, it was just a matter until his baseball card kicked in. 

That happened in the third. He gave up one in the third, one in the fourth, three in the fifth. 

After three starts, Mike Foltynewicz is 0-3 with a 5.63 ERA. He’s had flashes of brilliance. But those moments are fleeting. In his career, he’s had one great season, seven bad ones. Just like Jordan Lyles. He’s had two great starts. But in his ten-year career before this year, he’s had one half a great season and nine bad one. Same with Kyle Gibson.

So, take every great inning while you can. But realize these pitchers ended up being a bargain for the Rangers for a reason.

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TODAY’S GAME: