Phillies vs Rangers: Five questions to ask going into the series

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Jul 16, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jerad Eickhoff (48) pitches during the first inning against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Can Jerad Eickhoff get a win against his former team?

Jerad Eickhoff was considered more of a throw-in piece when the Phillies traded Cole Hamels to the Rangers two years ago, but he is the player who has contributed the most at the major-league level since the trade. In 48 career starts, Eickhoff has a 3.63 ERA and 14-20 record.

Apr 5, 2017; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jerad Eickhoff (48) against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park. The Reds won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

Eickhoff now has the opportunity to make his first career start against his former team. He could very well show them what they are missing out on. It could also be a chance for Eickhoff to turn around his recent struggles.

In his last three starts, Eickhoff has a combined 8.40 ERA, 5.01 FIP, 4.80 BB/9, and 2.00 WHIP. Altogether, he has a 4.76 ERA through his first seven starts and is still looking for his first win of the season.

Many expected Eickhoff to carry over his success from 2016 to this year, but his recent string of poor starts has soured those plans. If Eickhoff can open the series with his first win of the season against his former team, it could both set the tone for the series and give Eickhoff a good starting point to turn his 2017 around.

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