MLB betting on the Texas Rangers as a favorite for the World Series increased greatly in July when the Rangers acquired Cliff Lee from the Seattle Mariners. Lee a former member of the 2009 World Series runners up the Philadelphia Phillies provides both instant stability and credibility to a young Rangers pitching staff. With the Rangers surge into first place this season, MLB betting has never been more exciting. This interesting sports gambler news takes a look at Lee and the Rangers.

Cliff Lee started his career in the Cleveland Indians organization, before being traded for prospects to the Philadelphia Phillies last season. From there, Lee helped a strong Phillies rotation defend its World Series title from 2008 before losing to the New York Yankees in 2009. Lee was easily the most dominant pitcher in the league last season as he had quite a few complete games while pitching for the Phillies.

Yet in the 2010 offseason, Lee was shockingly traded to the Seattle Mariners in a four team deal which saw the Phillies acquire former Blue Jay ace Roy Halladay. Speculation around the Phillies was that they did not want to sign Lee long term and felt Halladay had more to offer. Lee pitched admirably for the Mariners but it was evident he was not happy in Seattle.

Texas on the contrary, had been abysmal for years, slowly developing their prospects. To start the 2010 season they played strong getting off to a great start but appeared to be missing a piece to stabilize their rotation. Lee’s unhappiness in Seattle and the Rangers need for an ace was a match made in heaven and in the beginning of July Lee was traded to Texas.

Lee has appeared to be the answer to Rangers fans prayers as he has provided a foundation for the young pitchers in Texas not seen since Nolan Ryan. The Rangers not only appear to be destined for the post season, but with Lee at the helm and Josh Hamilton leading the offense, Texas may finally have the tools to claim a World Series Title.