The Texas Rangers find themselves in a pivotal moment as their season now hinges on the performances of Jordan Montgomery and Nathan Eovaldi in the upcoming games of the American League Championship Series (ALCS). With a $270 million investment in free agent starting pitchers over the winter, the Rangers knew that their success would heavily rely on their rotation.

In Thursday's 10-3 loss to the Houston Astros in Game 4 of the ALCS, it became apparent just how crucial strong pitching is for the Rangers. The best-of-seven series is now tied at two games apiece, and the Rangers will have to head back to Houston for Games 6 and 7 if necessary. While the team had hoped to avoid a return to Houston, they can't deny the dominance the Astros have displayed in Arlington, winning seven straight games and outscoring the Rangers 74-32.

In order to avoid a Game 7, the Rangers will be heavily reliant on the exceptional performances of Jordan Montgomery and Nathan Eovaldi. So far in October, the duo has combined for a remarkable 2.19 ERA, allowing only nine earned runs in 37 innings over six starts. The Rangers have managed to secure victories in all six games started by Montgomery and Eovaldi. On the other hand, the other Rangers' starters have struggled, allowing nine runs in just 8.1 innings over three starts, resulting in two losses for the team.

Rangers manager Bruce Bochy expressed the importance of other pitchers stepping up, but it's clear that Montgomery and Eovaldi hold the key to the team's success. They have been consistent and reliable throughout the postseason, and the Rangers will need them to continue their stellar performances if they want to advance in the playoffs.

Both Montgomery and Eovaldi are aware of the challenges ahead. Facing the deep and experienced Houston lineup for the second time in less than a week will be no easy task, as the Astros have gained familiarity with their pitching styles. Montgomery acknowledged the need to switch things up and find different ways to get the Astros out, given their exceptional batting prowess.

However, Montgomery has shown in the past that he can adapt and deliver in consecutive starts against the same team. With his varied repertoire, opponents find it difficult to anticipate his pitches. The same can be said for Eovaldi, who adds to the Rangers' pitching depth.

The Rangers had high hopes for their starting rotation, acquiring multiple talented pitchers over the winter. General Manager Chris Young emphasized the importance of having sufficient pitching depth and made strategic moves to bolster the roster. However, it is clear that even with these additions, the Rangers are heavily reliant on Montgomery and Eovaldi to carry them through the playoffs.

As the ALCS progresses and the Rangers aim for a spot in the World Series, Montgomery and Eovaldi will need to rise to the occasion once again. The team's hopes of securing victory and advancing in the postseason now rest on the shoulders of these two talented pitchers, who have been the driving force behind the Rangers' success in October.