The Texas Rangers just needed to win their series in Houston to be in good shape, but after losing two of the three games, they’ve gone from being 4.5 games ahead to 2.5 games for the lead in the A.L. West. And now the A.L. race is very tight. But being 2.5 games ahead is a whole lot better than being just half a game ahead. The Rangers are now headed back home for a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers. Since the Tigers are last in their division, the Rangers are capable of sweeping them, but they will need for the Astros to lose their series against Seattle.
Yovani Gallardo took the mound for Game 1, and was looking to end a two-game losing streak. Pitching only 4.2 innings, Gallardo allowed eight hits, surrendered two runs, and struck out four batters. The Rangers offense had a great game finishing with a total of 13 hits, and were struck out a combined five times. The Rangers went on to win 6-2, taking a 4.5 game lead in the A.L. West. Although, Gallardo received a no decision, therefore, he remains at a 12-11 record for now.
Derek Holland pitched Game 2 for Texas. In just five innings, Holland allowed seven hits, surrendered four runs, and struck out just one batter. The bullpen had a terrible day as they surrendered five runs, and struck out only two batters. The Rangers offense finished with a total of twelve hits, but were struck out a combined eleven times, so it wasn’t a very good day for them. The Rangers had an early 3-0 lead, but collapsed and found themselves down 9-4 in the eighth inning. Although they scored three runs in the ninth, the Rangers came up short and lost 9-7, dropping their lead to 3.5 games in the process.
Martin Perez was on the mound for Game 3. Pitching for seven innings, Perez allowed five hits, surrendered two runs, and struck out six batters. The Rangers offense had a terrible performance, finishing with a total of just three hits, and were struck out a combined twelve times. The Rangers lost Game 3 with a final score of 4-2, and their lead dropped to 2.5 games.
Had the Rangers swept the Astros, they’d be sitting at a 6.5 lead, but after losing two straight, they’re at 2.5 games, and the first place position is still up for grabs. The Rangers’ remaining games are all at home. With a 39-35 record at home, there’s not much of a home-field advantage for the Rangers. But being that they’re playing a poor Detroit Tigers team, they should win their series. This is the most important moment. The Rangers have spent the entire season chasing the Astros for first place, and now they will do whatever it takes to keep it.
Colby Lewis will be on the mound for the Rangers in Game 1 on Monday. He will be squaring off against Justin Verlander.
Upcoming Schedule – All Times Central
9/28 vs Tigers 7:05 pm
9/29 vs Tigers 7:05 pm
9/30 vs Tigers 7:05 pm
10/1 vs Angels 7:05 pm
10/2 vs Angels 7:05 pm
10/3 vs Angels 2:05 pm
