With the best record in the American League, the Texas Rangers have me thinking that they might actually have a good shot at making the postseason this year. Join me as I follow the Rangers throughout the rest of this season.
Tonight, the Rangers took advantage of an exceptional pitching performance by starter Scott Feldman as well as relievers C.J. Wilson and Frank Francisco. Feldman held the Yankees to just 2 runs in 6 1/3 innings of work while C.J. and Frankie didn't allow a run in the last 2 2/3 innings. This Yankees team is a hitting machine - the lowest batting average on the team coming into tonight's game was A-Rod who was batting .259. To hold that team to only two runs is pretty substantial. C.J., who has come under a lot of fire lately really had a good performance. His fastball was hitting 97 mph and he was really painting the corners of the plate.
The Rangers managed 4 runs against Yankee starter Andy Pettitte, who left the game after 5 innings of work. Nelson Cruz, Marlon Byrd, Chris Davis, and Ian Kinsler all had an RBI each for the Rangers. The Rangers were able to win despite not having any extra-base hits all night long.
Defensively, shortstop Elvis Andrus was a key player in tonight's victory as he showed lots of range to make some exceptional plays. He charged a slow-hit grounder in the 8th inning and made an off-balance throw to snuff out a possible Yankee rally. I'm thinking he might be the American League Rookie of the Year.
Also today, the Rangers requested waivers on Vicente Padilla, which means he could become a free agent. That would free up some money and a roster spot for the Rangers to do some dealing later this summer, if they continue to contend for the playoffs. I wonder if they might go after veteran lefty, Tom Glavine, who was released by the Braves today. He has more playoff experience than all of the Rangers combined.
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