World Series Game 1 a Battle of Rangers’, Diamondbacks’ Aces

Nathan Eovaldi (17) of the Texas Rangers throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning in Game Six of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Oct. 22, 2023. Carmen Mandato/Getty Images

Texas Rangers right-hander Nathan Eovaldi could etch his name in the record books on Friday when he takes the mound for Game 1 of the World Series against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Arlington, Texas.

Eovaldi (4–0, 2.42 ERA) is aiming to become the first pitcher to win five starts in the playoffs. Randy Johnson (2001), Francisco Rodriguez (2002) and Stephen Strasburg (2019) have recorded five wins in a single postseason, but each of the three pocketed a victory in relief.