Round up: Texas Rangers defeat Houston Astros, 2-1 in three-game series
Nationals League’s Texas Rangers and Houston Astros, both sides had better Win-Loss records during the current season. In a three-game series, the Rangers snatched an easy 2-1 win over the Astros at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas.
The Astros were lacking in the initial games and were unable to make their way on a winning track. Later, with the help of coaches, the batters performed like a game winner and put runs on the score-board.
Game 1: Texas Rangers 8 – Houston Astros 3 – June 20
The Rangers got an initial 1-0 lead in the series after the first win. The batters did a vital role in the Rangers’ victory as they posted seven runs in the first three innings. Adrian Beltre and Josh Hamilton were extraordinary as they both hit four RBIs
jointly in their team’s victory.
The Rangers’ manager, Ron Washington was content with the performance of his team. He said, “We were able to relax a little bit. We did a good job against Happ, not chasing too many of his off-speed pitches. When we got pitches to hit, we didn't try to do
too much with it.”
Michael Bourn, Jeff Keppinger and Jason Bourgeois each added three runs for the Astros.
Game 2: Texas Rangers 5 – Houston Astros 4 – June 21
In the second game, the Rangers’ first baseman, Mitch Moreland showed an aggressive play and hit a solo homer with 1-for-5 to give his team a 5-4 victory. The Rangers seized the series comfortably 2-0.
Moreland commented on his game plan and said, “My ultimate goal was to try to get on base and get something started, and I was able to end it all on one swing.”
Nelson Cruz and Michael Young both struck two homers collectively to lift the Rangers while the Astros’ batters and pitchers struggled in their departments as they did not perform well.
Game 3: Houston Astros 5 – Texas Rangers 3 – June 22
The Astros were able to evade the sweep against the Rangers by winning the last game and finished the series 2-1. Matt Downs had a notable day in the third game as he hit two RBIs and one home-run in the Astros’ 5-3 victory.
The Astros’ manager, Brad Mills had a huge ovation for his team as he stated, “There's no doubt it's a confidence booster, just with the guys battling so much. They were able to get something for it. ... That was sweet.”
Ian Kinsler and Endy Chavez both scored two runs while Cruz homered (440 feet) for the Rangers. Colby Lewis pitched well but this effort was not enough to steal a win. He threw seven score-less innings with an ERA of 4.44 and struck-out eight batters.
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