David Price Must Lead Tampa Bay Rays to Win in Game 3 Against Texas Rangers

David Price and the Tampa Bay Rays must win Game 3 against the Texas Rangers.

If they are going to take this series against the Rangers, they need to do it at home. Leaving it up to a series-clinching Game 5 isn't the best option for this team and its limited depth.

Also, Price is overdue for a strong outing. The Rays finished their historic run to the postseason in spite of the performance of their All-Star pitcher.

In last Wednesday's epic season-ending game that prolonged this improbable season, Price was taken out of the game after a dismal four-inning performance in which he gave up five earned runs on six hits. He had a 4.01 ERA and went 0-2 in his six starts in the month of September.

His performances to close this season aren't the only obstacle for him to overcome.

Price also has to overcome memories of last season's ALDS against the Rangers. He lost both of his starts as Cliff Lee and the Rangers would proceed to go to the World Series after sending the Rays home. The Rangers are the only American League team Price has faced and never defeated.

It's time for things to change.

When he takes the mound today, he should have a renewed confidence. The lineup has saved some of its best hitting performances for the end of the season when it's needed most. Price has had some great performances this season go down the drain due to nothing else but lack of run support.

With that said, he needs to control what he can control.

His teammates saved his last performance. This time, they need him to give them at least seven good innings against the Rangers.

The offense being able to bail him out twice is far from likely.

What is likely is that this team will go as Price goes tonight, and so will this season.

Jamal Wilburg is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report.

Follow his thoughts, insights, and ramblings on Twitter @JWilburg