The Texas Rangers have wrapped their series in Seattle against the Mariners. The Rangers fell short in the series and are now headed to Minnesota for a three-game series against the Twins. Despite not being able to win the series, the Rangers had the blessing of bringing back Mike Napoli in a trade with the Boston Red Sox. Mike Napoli signed with the Red Sox back in 2013 after spending the 2011 and 2012 seasons with the Texas Rangers.
Cole Hamels took the mound in Game 1 for the Rangers. Through six innings, Hamels allowed eight hits, surrendered four runs, and struck out seven batters. Cole Hammels ended up getting his first official loss in a Texas Ranger uniform as the Rangers fell short to the Mariners 4-3.
Martin Perez was on the mound for Game 2. Pitching in six innings, Perez allowed seven hits, surrendered three runs, and struck out five batters. The Rangers ended up taking this game in extra innings with an outstanding final score of 11-3 after scoring eight runs in the eleventh inning. Mike Napoli finished his return-to-the-Rangers debut with no hits, but did score a run.
Colby Lewis took the mound in Game 3 for the Rangers in a duel against Mariners ace Felix Hernandez. Through eight innings, Lewis allowed five hits, surrendered four runs, and struck out six batters. Despite the valiant effort, the Rangers fell short and lost Game 3 of the series with a score of 4-2, giving Colby Lewis his fifth loss in 2015.
The Rangers are now 4.5 games behind the Houston Astros for first place in the A.L. West standings. After sweeping the Houston Astros prior to the series in Seattle, the Rangers kept their playoff hopes alive. And by acquiring Mike Napoli they brought even more hope to their playoff chase.
To bring their playoff hopes even higher the Rangers will have to win the series against the Twins. Sweeping the Twins would be a big boost of confidence for the Texas Rangers.
The series in Minnesota begins on Tuesday. Yovani Gallardo will be on the mound for the Rangers for Game 1. The Rangers will continue to fight for a spot in the Wild Card. There’s still a bit of hope.
Upcoming Schedule
8/11 @Twins 7:10 pm
8/12 @Twins 7:10 pm
8/13 @Twins 12:10 pm
8/14 vs Rays 7:05 pm
8/15 vs Rays 7:05 pm
8/16 vs Rays 2:05 pm
