Here's five things you should know about the Pittsburgh Pirates, who open a three-game series against the Texas Rangers on Friday at Globe Life Park:

On a roll

The Pirates have won nine of their last 11 games. The rotation is 8-1 with a 1.21 ERA in that span.

Solid grip on leads

Pittsburgh and St. Louis are the only major league clubs that have not lost when leading after six innings. The Pirates are 23-0 when leading after six innings.

Familiar face

Former Rangers closer Neftali Feliz has re-established himself as a setup man with the Pirates. Feliz ranks second in the National League for saves with 11. In his last eight appearances, Feliz has allowed two hits in six scoreless innings.The fastball is back up to the 98-mph level, where it was before Feliz underwent Tommy John after an ill-fated try at starting with the Rangers.

Top-notch outfield

According to the WAR metric, Pittsburgh has the best outfield in the majors with left fielder Starling Marte, center fielder Andrew McCutchen and right fielder Gregory Polanco. They have a combined WAR of 3.4. Boston's outfield is second, at 2.8.

Fine in interleague play

Pirates manager Clint Hurdle, the former Rangers hitting coach, has no problems operating with the designated hitter in American League parks. Since 2013, the Pirates are 20-12 in AL parks.