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Red Sox hope for split against Rangers

Jul 2, 2007 - 1:01 PM Texas (34-47) at Boston (49-31), 7:05 pm EDT

BOSTON (Ticker) -- The Boston Red Sox try to break out of their offensive slump and gain a split of a four-game series against the Texas Rangers on Monday.

David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez - each of whom were named to the American League All-Star team on Sunday - have both been slumping. Ortiz is 2-for-16 over his last four games while Ramirez slumps into Monday's contest at 2-for-21 over his last six contests.

The lack of production from the middle of the order has led to the Red Sox managing just eight runs over their last four games.

Boston began the season at a blistering 36-16 pace over the first two months, but struggled to a disappointing 13-14 mark in June, due mainly to an offense that has yet to start firing on all cylinders. Despite the struggles, the Red Sox still maintain a 10 1/2-game lead over Toronto (39-42) in the AL East.

The Red Sox will send rookie Kason Gabbard (1-0, 6.48 ERA) to the hill on Monday. The lefthander was recalled from Class AAA Pawtucket to replace the injured Curt Schilling and lasted just 3 1/3 innings last Tuesday in a loss at Seattle.

Gabbard walked six and allowed four earned runs, but did not factor in the decision.

The Rangers will counter with Brandon McCarthy (4-4, 5.90). The young righthander will be activated from the disabled list in time for the start after missing 22 days with a blister on the middle finger of his pitching hand.

McCarthy got knocked around by Boston on May 25, allowing four runs and issuing four walks in just two innings, but did not factor in the decision as Texas went on to lose 10-6.