Photo Courtesy: Dominic Ceraldi
The Texas Rangers needed to win their series against the San Diego Padres to be one step closer to getting to first place in the A.L. West standings. With their series win in San Diego, and the Houston Astros losing two straight games, the Texas Rangers are now just two games behind the first place Astros. This is just what the Rangers needed. After their second straight series win, the Rangers have a lot of momentum with a record of 70-62 with thirty games remaining in the regular season. If the Rangers continue to win their upcoming series, and if the Astros continue to lose, the Rangers could win the A.L. West. Regardless it’ll be a battle until the end of the season.
Colby Lewis took the mound for the Rangers in Game 1. It didn’t turn out to be a good night for him as he allowed seven hits, surrendered six runs and struck out only two batters in 5.2 innings. The Rangers offense could not produce any momentum as they only had a combined three hits. The Rangers the game 7-0, giving Colby Lewis his second straight loss.
Yovani Gallardo was on the mound for Game 2. In a short five-inning start, Gallardo allowed six hits, surrendered four runs, and struck out only two batters. The Rangers offense did perform better by recording a combined twelve hits, but we’re struck out a combined eight times. Despite being outhit by the Padres, the Rangers took the win with a final score of 8-6. The highlight of the game was in the seventh inning when Elvis Andrus’ single allowed the Rangers to score three runs due to a Padres throwing error, and when Andrus stole home base to give the Rangers an 8-4 lead. Although the bullpen nearly blew it in the ninth inning, they managed to find a way to hang on for the 8-6.
Cole Hamels took the mound for Game 3. In seven innings, Hamels allowed eight hits, surrendered three runs, and struck out eight batters. The Rangers offense recorded a total of nine hits but were struck out a combined sixteen times. Nonetheless, the Rangers picked up the win in the tenth inning thanks to a Mitch Moreland double deep to right that allowed the Rangers to break the 3-3 tie and make it 4-3, which ended up being the game decider as Shawn Tolleson closed the door for the save.
The Texas Rangers are now headed to Anaheim for a three-game series against their A.L. West rivals, the Los Angeles Angels. To keep their momentum going, the Rangers will need to win the series. But no matter how bad the Angels are struggling, it’s always a challenge for the Rangers to win a series against the Angels.
The series begins tomorrow evening, and Martin Perez will be on the mound for the Rangers. The Rangers will look to fight for first place.
Upcoming Schedule – All Times Central
9/4 @Angels 9:05 pm
9/5 @Angels 8:05 pm
9/6 @Angels 2:35 pm
