Alexi Ogando’s defence helps Texas Rangers defeat Los Angeles Angels 4-1 – MLB Update
Texas Rangers put in a good performance as they beat the Los Angeles Angels at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Friday, May 13.
Alexi Ogando gave some defensive strength to the Rangers while Elvis Andrus and Adrian Beltre put in a tremendous effort on the offence. Ogando pitched unplayable innings, while Beltre and Andrus charged the offence with their respective homers. Los Angeles’
Jered Weaver, was unable to live up to the expectations of his fans.
Among the top performers was Ogando who was undoubtedly superb with his feat. He monopolised the pitching rotation and beat Weaver. Nevertheless, instead of showing extravagant enthusiasm, he struck a very humble note. "I don't know that I'm a dominant pitcher
yet," Ogando said. "All my pitches have been working. I just have to keep working and I'll get better. I know I can do my job out there."
The Angels, if the game is seen with sharply analytical eyes, seemed completely overwhelmed by Ogando’s exploit. However, to avoid giving any impression of being absolutely unable to face Ogando in future, Angels’ catcher Hank Conger said, “He threw real
well. It's the first time I've seen him pitch. He's got a good fastball, and his breaking ball is kind of a slurve. He also showed a good changeup. He made pitches when he needed to."
Ogando, who was playing his first game after undergoing a blister on his right index finger, only allowed five hits throughout his six innings. The only tough time he faced was in the sixth inning when he allowed singles.
Friday’s game started with Alexi pitching for Texas. He did not allow any hit in the inning, as Andrus soon opened the account for Texas with a homer to left. Erick Aybar was quick to level the score in the third inning as the Rangers adopted an entirely
different strategy.
Michael Young doubled to deep right, allowing Kinsler to score the second run for the Rangers in the fourth inning. Weaver was visibly frustrated as the Rangers kept the steady flow of runs coming their way. Andrus scored his second and team’s third run
in the fifth inning, giving a 3-1 lead to Texas. Ogando, kept his performance high as he limited the Angels’ hitters.
Beltre homered to centre to score the winning run for the Rangers. Neftali Feliz went hard on the Texas’ hitters in the ninth inning to seal the 4-1 victory for the Rangers, giving the first win in the three game series against Los Angeles.
Tags: