In a pivotal Game 4 of the World Series, the Texas Rangers find themselves in a challenging situation as they navigate their pitching options. With a lack of fully stretched-out starters and a need for bullpen depth, Manager Bruce Bochy must carefully piece together a plan to counter their opponent.

The Rangers entered Game 4 with six healthy starting pitchers, including Jordan Montgomery, Nathan Eovaldi, Max Scherzer, Andrew Heaney, Jon Gray, Dane Dunning, and Martín Pérez. However, only Montgomery and Eovaldi are serving as traditional workhorse starters in the playoffs.

Scherzer's shoulder injury and subsequent back spasms forced him to exit his Game 3 start early, leaving his status uncertain for future games. Gray, who had limited playoff appearances and minimal pitch counts since late September, may also not be available for Game 4 despite an impressive relief outing in Game 3.

Heaney, who started Game 1 of the ALDS, has had an inconsistent workload throughout the playoffs. He was pulled early in Game 4 of the ALCS and has since made two relief appearances, including a brief six-pitch outing in Game 2 of the World Series. Dunning has made four playoff appearances, with his highest pitch count reaching 63 in 2 2/3 innings of work.

Pérez, who appeared in three playoff games, reached a peak of two innings and 39 pitches, both of which occurred in Game 2 of the World Series. This suggests he may not be able to handle the workload of a typical starter in Game 4.

As a result, the Rangers are faced with the challenge of assembling a bullpen-centric strategy for Game 4. The likelihood of using Heaney, Dunning, and Pérez for two innings apiece looms, as the team aims to exploit their bullpen depth in the absence of traditional starters.

While bullpen games can be effective, especially in the absence of top-flight arms, the lack of a prominent starting pitcher presents a challenge in terms of aesthetic appeal. The absence of a long, duel-like performance from a starting pitcher may leave fans longing for the days of iconic showdowns like Jack Morris and John Smoltz.

Nonetheless, Game 4 of the World Series promises to be an exciting affair, reaffirming the adage that every World Series game holds its own unique charm. As the Rangers face the pitching dilemma head-on, they strive to counter their opponent and keep their championship hopes alive.