Texas' Come From Behind Bid Comes Up Short

The Texas Rangers came into game five of the ALCS, with a commanding 3-1 lead. The Tigers sent their ace pitcher Justin Verlander to the mound to try to keep the Tigers in the series. Justin Verlander is the best pitcher in the American League, if not in all of baseball. The Rangers sent their ace pitcher C.J. Wilson to the mound to try to close out the series with the Tigers. C.J. Wilson has not pitched to his capabilities this postseason. Like the previous games in the ALCS, you knew that game five was going to be just as intense. The Tigers in a must win situation and the Rangers wanting to close out the series. To win their second consecutive American League Championship and go to their second consecutive World Series.

Texas started off the scoring in the first inning, when Ian Kinsler led the game off with a double. Elvis Andrus battled at the plate against Justin Verlander, before hitting a ground ball to second baseman Ramon Santiago, to move Kinsler over to third base. Josh Hamilton battled Justin Verlander before hitting a sacrifice fly to center fielder Austin Jackson, to score Ian Kinsler. C.J. Wilson looked strong the first two innings getting all six batters he faced. The start of the third inning C.J. Wilson struck out Brandon Inge looking, before he gave up the solo home-run to struggling eighth place hitter Alex Avila to tie the game 1-1. The Tigers took the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning, when Delmon Young homered to center field to make the score 2-1. As you would expect the Rangers came back in the fifth inning to tie the game 2-2, when Ian Kinsler walked and Elvis Andrus singled to left field. Josh Hamilton singled to center field to score Ian Kinsler. The Rangers Elvis Andrus on third base and Josh Hamilton on first base, Adrian Beltre's line drive shot was inches foul, that would have given the Rangers a 5-2 lead. However, Adrian Beltre ended up flying out to center field.

The Rangers blew a great opportunity in the sixth inning to open the game up. Texas had the bases loaded with one out. Ian Kinsler stepped up to the plate and hit the first pitch he saw to third baseman Brandon Inge, who turned an inning ending double play. The Tigers' Ryan Raburn starts the inning off, by hitting a single to left field, then Miguel Cabrera hit a line drive down the third base line that hit the bag, that went over Adrian Beltre's head into the left field corner for a double. Ryan Raburn scored the go ahead run to make it 3-2. The Tigers added on to their lead, when Victor Martinez tripled to right field, to score Miguel Cabrera to take a 4-2 lead. Delmon Young hit his second home-run of the game, when he hit a two run shot to left-center field to cap off a four run inning, to give the Tigers a 6-2 lead. The Rangers went down in order in their half of the seventh inning. Detroits' Ryan Raburn added one more run, when he hit a solo shot to right-center field off of Koji Uehara, to give the Tigers a five run lead at 7-2.

The Rangers still kept battling though, when Mike Napoli hit a line drive single to left field, then Nellie Cruz hit a two run home-run to left field to cut the Tigers lead to 7-4. The Rangers managed to stop the Tigers scoring, by setting them down in order. The Rangers are a team that battles to the very end, with two outs Josh Hamilton doubled to center field, then Michael Young singled to right field to score Hamilton to cut the lead to 7-5. Adrian Beltre walks to send the lead run at the plate in Mike Napoli. Napoli hit a soft grounder to second baseman Ramon Santiago, who flipped the ball to shortstop Johnny Paralta to end the game.

"The turning point of the game was when the Rangers' Adrian Beltre's bid for a three run home-run to take a 5-2 in the fifth inning, just foul. However, the Rangers had another chance to score runs in their half of the sixth, until Ian Kinsler hit into an inning ending double play."

"The Tigers took advantage of an unusual play, when Miguel Cabrera hit a line drive down the third base line when the ball hit the bag and over the head of Adrian Beltre, for a double to score Ryan Raburn."

The ALCS, has been a matter of inches or a matter of plays. The Rangers and Tigers are both equally dangerous on offense. However, for the most part, runs have been hard to come by. All the games in the series have been pitching duels. What a series this has been, and still game six and a possible game seven.

"The Rangers are in the same position as last year, going home with a 3-2 lead. Texas has had their backs against the wall before, but have come out on top. They proved that in game four, when they produced a four run inning to defeat theTigers 7-3."

"RANGERS LOOK TO CELEBRATE A CONSECUTIVE ALCS TITLE, SATURDAY NIGHT!"

Nellie Cruz is Texas' X-Factor

Texas' Cruz has been the big bat in their lineup in the ALCS. Nellie Cruz has hit four homers and nine runs batted in. In game one Cruz hit a solo home-run to give the Rangers a 3-0 lead, before the game was delayed by rain in Arlington. That solo shot proved to be the game winning hit, beating the Tigers 3-2.

In game two of the ALCS the battle between the Rangers and Tigers continued. Just like game one of the ALCS, runs were hard to come by. The Tigers had a 3-2 lead going to the bottom of the seventh inning when Cruz hit a solo homer to tie the game 3-3. Both the Rangers and Tigers pitching staffs were virtually unhittable or great defensive plays to keep the score tied. When both teams had a chance to score they could not deliver the clutch hit. In the bottom of the eleventh inning the Rangers had the bases loaded, when Nellie Cruz stepped up to the plate. Nellie delivered the "CRUSHING" blow to the Tigers, when he hit a walk-off grandslam to beat the Tigers 7-3.

"Rangers' Cruz set major league baseball history, by being the first player to hit a walk-off grandslam in postseason play."

The Rangers had a 2-0 lead in the ALCS, going into game three. The Tigers brought out their heavy bats with Martinez, Cabrera, and Peralta going long to open up the game at 5-1. The Rangers could not seem to figure out Detroits' pitcher Doug Fister. When the Rangers did get base hits off of Fister, they were eye seeing singles hit softly. The Rangers managed to add on another run in the eighth inning, but went on to lose 5-2. Suddenly the momentum seemed to change, since the Rangers have not played well in Comerica Park.

With the Tigers cutting into the Rangers ALCS lead 2-1, many skeptics felt like the momentum was on the Tigers side even though they were behind in the series. Skeptics said, even though Texas has the lead in the series they must win game four, so they would not have to face Justin Verlander with the series tied 2-2. If the Rangers lose they could be going back home trailing 3-2.

Like game one of the ALCS, the fans found themselves sitting in a rain delay. The game did not start until 5:30 pm (EST). Game four was another tense battle. The Tigers took a 2-0 lead in the third inning, when Miguel Cabrera hit a two run double. The Rangers came back in the sixth inning, when David Murphy singled to left field, then Ian Kinsler doubled to left field scoring David Murphy. Ian Kinsler steals third base, while Elvis Andrus was at the plate. Andrus, then hits a line drive single to center field, to score Ian Kinsler to tie the score 2-2. Detroits' pitcher Rick Porcello tried to pick-off Elvis Andrus at first base, but made a bad throw. Andrus moved to second base, on the bad throw. Michael Young was at the plate, who has not had an rbi in postseason play this season. He delivered a single to center field to give the Rangers the lead 3-2. Detroit tied the game in the bottom of the seventh, when Brandon Inge hits a solo shot off Alexi Ogando in left field.

The battle continued when both the Rangers and Tigers could not score, when they had scoring opportunities to take the lead in the game. The Rangers had the bases loaded in the eighth inning and could not score. Rangers' manager Ron Washington took a gamble in the bottom of the eighth inning, by intentionally walking Miguel Cabrera, then Victor Martinez hit a single to right field. With Victor Martinez on first base and Miguel Cabrera on third base, with one out. Delmon Young hit a fly ball to right fielder Nellie Cruz, who threw to Mike Napoli to tag Miguel Cabrera at the plate for a double play.

In the Rangers eleventh inning Josh Hamilton hit the first pitch he saw from Jose Valverde to right field for a double, then Adrian Beltre was intentionally walked. Mike Napoli delivered a single to center field, to score Josh Hamilton to take a 4-3 lead on the Tigers. Nellie Cruz stepped up to the plate with Adrian Beltre on second base and Mike Napoli on first base, he delivered his eleventh inning magic again by hitting a three run homer to give the Rangers a 7-3 lead. The Rangers' Neftali Feliz closed out the game getting the Tigers out in order, to take a 3-1 lead in the ALCS.

"If game four holds true, then the Rangers are going to be back-to-back American League Champions and going to back-to-back World Series."

What a series so far for Nellie Cruz, not only with his offensive "BOOMSTICK," but his defensive play as well. If Texas defeats the Tigers today to win the American League Pennant, you know who the MVP of the ALCS is.

               "NELLIE (BOOMSTICK) CRUZ"

Rangers' Napoli Has Played Key Role In 2011 Season!

The Angels traded Mike Napoli to the Toronto Blue Jays in the off season. Napoli was a Blue Jay for four days, before becoming a Texas Ranger. Mike Napoli has been a big, big part of the Rangers offense all year, especially down the stretch. Napoli can play catcher, first base, and designated hitter. Mike Napoli has teamed up with Yorvit Torrealba at catcher throughout the 2011 season.

The Rangers made some outstanding acquisitions over the off season, by picking up third baseman Adrian Beltre, Yorvit Torrealba, and Mike Napoli, each player has contributed both on offense, as well as defense. Withe the Rangers additions, that has made them a more balanced team on offense and defense. Mike Napoli was always considered a power hitter, but did not hit very well for average in his previous years with the Angels. When Napoli was with the Angels he was a Ranger killer, now he's one of the top offensive producers with the defending American League champions.

Mike has not just produced on the offensive side, he has shown his outstanding defensive play behind the plate. Mike was managed by Mike Scioscia of the Angels, who was an outstanding catcher in his own right. Mike Scioscia knows how to teach catchers on his ball club to be great defensive catchers. Napoli hit for a high average against his former team and manager. Don't you know Mike Scioscia wished the Angels never traded Mike Napoli. The Angels did not trade Napoli to the Rangers, who are their rivals in the American League Western Division. The Angels traded Napoli to Toronto, then Toronto traded him to the Rangers four days after.

Mik Napoli, had a very productive season in all parts of the game, on offense and defense for the Rangers. He played some first base, catcher and designated hitter. Mike was so productive down the stretch of the 2011 season, that Ron Washington could not take him out of the line-up during the playoffs. Mike hit homer after homer it seemed, or a clutch hit when the Rangers needed one in crucial times of the game. Napoli clinched home field advantage for the Rangers, when he hit a two run homer to beat the Angels 3-1 in the final game of the season.

Rangers' Napoli season statistics, he hit .320, with thirty homers, seventy-five rbi's, and a .414 on base percentage. His career batting average is .264, with one hundred twenty-two homers, three hundred twenty-four rbi's, and a .359 on base percentage. Napoli has raised his batting average .56 points. What a turn around in his offensive production. The Rangers plan was to use Mike as a platoon player. However, he turned out to be one of the key players for the Rangers in 2011.

Rangers' manager Ron Washington was asked, why do you think Mike has had better offensive production in the 2011 season? Ron Washington said, he felt like the change of scenery was the difference, as well as his work ethic. Mike is a player that works hard to be the best player he can be to help his teammates win baseball games. How ironic is that? Mike fits right in with his teammates, because that's exactly how the Texas Rangers approach the game of baseball.

When Tampa Bays' manager Joe Maddon was asked about the two run homer Mike Napoli hit in the seventh inning that put the Rangers ahead 2-1 in game three of the ALDS. Maddon said, it's "the year of the Napoli."

Previewing The ALDS Match-Ups

Tampa Bay Rays vs Texas Rangers:

This will be a rematch from last years ALDS. Their roles will be reversed from the 2010 ALDS. The Texas Rangers will be hosting the Tampa Bay Rays this year in games one and two, where last year the Rays hosted the Rangers. The Rangers took the first two games in Tampa Bay, then the Rays tied the series winning games three and four. Texas took the series three games to two, by winning game five 5-1.

This will be a similar ALDS match-up this year between the two teams, but not the same make-up for either team in 2011. The Rangers no longer have Cliff Lee, who won two games in the ALDS match-up a year ago. Tampa Bay no longer has Carl Crawford, Matt Garza, Carlos Pena, and Rafael Soriano.

The Texas Rangers are a much more balanced team in 2011, despite not having Cliff Lee who won two games in last years ALDS. When you look at the Rangers starting pitching they are good, as well as deep. In the month of September both Holland and Harrison have pitched well down the stretch. With the addition of Koji Uehara, Mike Adams, and Mike Gonzales, that has strengthened the Rangers bullpen.

The Tampa Bay Rays, have been a very hot team in the month of September. Will the Rays cinderella season continue? The Rangers will be using three left handed pitchers in the series. That bolds well for the Rays, they are terrific hitting lefties. The Rays will face Wilson and Holland in the first two games of the series, both are lefties. In game four of the series Colby Lewis is scheduled to pitch for the Rangers, who is the other lefty.

As we saw down the stretch of the 2011 season, you can't count out the Rays at anytime. If you remember last year the cinderella team was the Texas Rangers. This is an even match-up like last year, but the Rangers are a more balanced team in 2011.

Prediction:

Texas wins the series 3-2


Detroit Tigers vs New York Yankees:

The Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees are two evenly matched teams. The Yankees are known for their powerful offense and pitching. The Tigers have the best pitcher in baseball, Justin Verlander. Out of all the match-ups in the ALDS, this could have the same drama as the end of the 2011 season.

With the additions of Doug Fister, Wilson Betimit, and Delmon Young this has made the Tigers a more balanced team. The Tigers have become a better team on the fly. The Tigers lineup is more balanced by adding Betimit and Young, with batting champion Miguel Cabrera. The Tigers bullpen is very strong with the perfect Jose Valverde.

The Yankees ace CC Sabathia is their top pitcher, after that they are succeptible. The Yankees bullpen is very good as usual. The back-end of the Yankees pitching rotation with Garcia is up in the air. Alex Rodriguez is not the same player he has been in recent years, with multiple injuries. Rodriguez will be batting fourth in their lineup and that could be a problem later on in the series.

We can look back over the years the Tigers and Yankees have met in the playoffs numerous times. This series could bring back old, old memories. Will theTigers and Yankees bring back some of that old drama?

Prediction:

Tigers wins the series 3-2

AL and NL Postseason Match-Ups Are Set!

The wild-card races went down to the very last day of the season. The battle between the Boston Redsox and Tampa Bay Rays was a fierce battle to the end. The Redsox took a 1-0 lead in the third inning, when Dustin Pedroia singled up the middle to score Mike Aviles. The Orioles came back in their half of the third inning to take a 2-1 lead, when J. Hardy hit a two run homer in the left field seats. Boston scored one run in the fourth and fifth innings to take a 3-2 lead. The Redsox lead held up until the bottom of the ninth, when the Orioles scored two runs to beat the Redsox 4-3.

While the Redsox were battling the Orioles, Rays had their own challenge facing the New York Yankees. The Rays found themselves down early to the Yankees 7-0. Tampa Bay was behind 7-1, going into the bottom of the eighth inning. Tampa Bay stormed back scoring eight runs in their half of the eighth to tie the game 7-7. Tampa Bays' Evan Longoria led off the bottom of the twelfth inning with a line-drive homer down the left field line to beat the Yankees 8-7. Tampa Bays' Longoria hit the homer minutes after the Orioles defeated the Redsox. With the win the Rays clinched a spot in postseason.

                  2011 ALDS MATCH-UPS:

The NL Wild-Card race was dead even going into the last game of the season, like the AL Wild-Card race. The Atlanta Braves had been struggling to win baseball games down the stretch. They had the toughest challenge facing the Phillies, who have the best record in the major leagues. Atlanta had a slim lead over Philadelphia 3-2 going into the ninth inning. The Phillies tied the game in the bottom of the ninth, when the bases were loaded and Chase Utley hit a scacrifice fly to score Pete Orr. The Phillies took the lead in the top of the thirteenth inning, when Hunter Pence singled up the middle to score Brian Schneider. Atlantas' Chipper Jones strikes out, then Dan Uggla walks, and Freddie Freeman ends the game, hitting into a double-play. With the loss the Atlanta Braves found themselves left out of the postseason for the second consecutive year.

While the Braves were facing the Phillies, the Cardinals were facing the Astros, who have the worst record in the major leagues. The Cardinals immediately took charge of the game by scoring five runs in the first inning. St. Louis never looked back pounding out twelve hits, while Chris Carpenter pitched a complete game. Chris Carpenter pitched a two hit shutout. The Cardinals were dominant the whole night, beating the Astros 8-0. St. Louis found out later on that night, they were heading to the postseason. When they saw that the Phillies defeated the Braves in the thirteenth inning 4-3.

                   2011 NLDS MATCH-UPS:

           

           

Rangers Win Totals Improve EveryYear, Under Ron Washington!

Rangers' manager Ron Washington came to Texas in 2007. When Ron Washington came to the Rangers, winning baseball games was very difficult. The last time we can look back on having winning seasons and making the playoffs, was when Johnny Oates was the skipper. Johnny Oates was the manager for Texas for six full seasons, during that time he managed the Rangers franchise to their first ever ALDS in 1996. The Rangers went to the playoffs in 1998 and 1999. Each time Johnny Oates went to the ALDS, his team happened to face the New York Yankees. The Rangers lost to the Yankees 3-1 in 1996, 3-0 both 1998-1999. Johnny Oates just managed twenty-eight games in 2001 due to illness.

The Rangers had only one winning season under Buck Showalter, when he went 89-73 in 2004. That year they finished third in AL West. Showalter managed the Rangers for only four seasons and he posted a record of 319-329 a winning percentage of .492. After the Rangers won 89 games in 2004, they won 79 and 80 games the next two seasons under Showalter.

In 2007 Ron Washington became the new skipper in town. In his first year as manager of the Rangers, he went 75-87. That was five games worse than the previous year under Showalter. We as DFW sports skeptics thought oh well it's the Rangers, we are not a baseball town. In 2008 we improved to 79-83, in 2009 we improved to 87-75 second place in the AL West, and last year we improved to 90-72 won the AL West and went to the franchises first ever "World Series. We lost to the San Francisco Giants 4-1 in the 2010 World Series.

The first season ever the Rangers are defending their coveted American League Championship. The Rangers are currently sitting with a record of 94-66, and have a chance to break their most wins in a season with 95 in 1999. The Rangers are a young team that keeps improving from year to year. The starting pitching for the Rangers have all won at least 13 or more games. The Rangers have more depth in their line-up than they did, in the 2010 season. Ron Washington was asked, how were you able to turn this Rangers baseball franchise around so quickly?

Rangers' manager Ron Washington said, "he did not do anything different, the players played the game the way they were coached and they made me look good. He went on to say, that the players bought into the Rangers system and they played their style of baseball."

"The players enjoy playing the game of baseball, by having fun. Most importantly they like to reward their fans by performing well on the field."

A lot of managers in baseball and coaches in other sports learn how to adapt to adjustments during games, not so with Ron Washington. Washington always thinks ahead on how he's going to approach each game, no different in the postseason. What ever decision he makes, you can assure it will be for the best interest of his team and where they want to be.

In the last three games he is allowing his starting pitchers to pitch a couple of innings to tune up for the postseason. He's auditioning his relief pitchers, so he knows which ones to use during postseason. Ron Washington is thinking ahead on what is best for his baseball team. Like any manager or leader he wants to have the very best players on the field, to give his team the best chance to win.

"The Rangers are peeking at the right time, currently they are the hottest team in the American League. They are currently defending their coveted American League Championship, like CHAMPIONS."

Ron Wahington has a philosophy with his players, that will continue to allow his team to get better throughout the years to come. Texas Ranger baseball has finally caught on around the Major Leagues and the North Texas area.

"The Texas Rangers are the first team ever to improve win totals under new manager, four consecutive years."


                                "TEXAS RANGERS BASEBALL, FOR CHAMPIONS!"          

AL and NL Wild-Card Leaders Are Holding On By A Thread!

With three games left in the regular season, both Boston and Atlanta are holding to the slimmest of leads in the wild-card races. Boston and Atlanta have a one game lead over their closest competitors. Boston has a one game lead over Tampa Bay and a three game lead over Los Angeles. Atlanta holds a one game lead to their only competitor St. Louis.

Boston, who has a one game lead over Tampa Bay, has to travel to Baltimore. Baltimore, who has played a big role determining the wild-card winner, can be a spoiler for Bostons' attempt. However, Tampa Bay is hosting the AL Eastern Division Champion Yankees. New York has helped their long time rival Boston of late, by beating teams chasing them for the wild-card. The Angels, who are three games behind Boston is hosting the AL Western Division Champions. The only way Los Angeles can win the wild-card race is to "sweep" the Rangers, which will be a tough task. Texas is trying their best to hold off Detroit to have home field advantage in the ALDS. Texas currently has a one game lead over Detroit. If Texas and Detroit have the same record at the end of the season. Detroit wins home field advantage, since they won the season series with Texas.

Detroit is hosting the Clevland Indians, as Texas is on the road in Los Angeles for their last three games of the regular season. The Indians will be traveling to Detroit to play a role to determine who has home field advantage. Los Angeles still has the slimmest of hopes to win the wild-card race, while Texas is looking to win home field advantage for the ALDS.

Wild-Card Standings:

Team                      W      L      PCT      GB
Boston                     89      70      .560         -
Tampa Bay              88      71      .553         1
Los Angeles             86      73      .541         3

Home Field Advantage Standings:

Team                    W        L        PCT      GB
Texas                     93       66      .585         -
Detroit                   92       67       .579         1

  









The National League wild-card race has been like the American League wild-card race, Atlanta has been struggling to win ball games like Boston. The only difference between the American League and the National League it's a two team race. The defending World Champion San Francisco Giants were eliminated over the weekend.

The Atlanta Braves have the toughest challenge to win the National League wild-card race. Atlanta is hosting the best team in the Major Leagues, Philadelphia. While St. Louis is traveling to Houston to face the worst team in the Major Leagues. Without even playing the three game series, it would appear on paper that St. Louis not only has the advantage, but looks like they will beat out Atlanta. However, that's why we play the games.

Can Atlanta beat the odds by winning their series with Philadelphia, to win the wild-card race?

Will St. Louis over come Atlanta, by winning their wild-card race?

"We will know definitely by Wednesday night, as the postseason match-ups will be revealed."

Wild-Card Standings:

Team                  W        L        PCT        GB
Atlanta                89        70       .560           -
St. Louis             88        71       .553            1

Rangers Are Hoping To Clinch The AL West Title Tonight!

The Texas Rangers, who are the team to beat in the American League, are hoping to clinch their second straight American League Western Division Title tonight. The Rangers lost to the A's yesterday afternoon in the ninth inning 4-3. If the Angels could have beaten the Blue Jays, it would have kept the Rangers magic number to three. However, the Blue Jays' Edwin Encarnacion hit a walk-off homer in the twelfth inning to beat the Angesls 4-3.

If the Angels could have beaten the Blue Jays last night the Rangers could have clinched the AL West as early as Sunday. With the Blue Jays helping out the Rangers, by defeating the Angels. Now the magic number is two. Texas is hosting Seattle this weekend in their final homestand of the season. If Texas can beat Seattle tonight they will clinch the AL West and will get ready to defend their coveted American League Championship.

"Rangers can win the AL Western Division Title, as early as tonight. With a Rangers victory or an Angels loss, will assure a Rangers celebration. So Ranger fans we might as well begin to CELEBRATE.


                                        "TIME TO BRING OUT THE CHAMPAGNE"

Even though it's inevidible the Rangers will win the AL Western Division Title, they still need to keep winning baseball games. The battle with the Tigers for the second seed in the American League will be very intense the last six games of the season. The winner between Texas and Detroit, will face the wild-card winner. The loser of the home field advantage battle, will be facing New York in the ALDS.

The Boston Redsox are currently holding a two game lead over Tampa Bay and a three game lead over Los Angeles. The key weekend series schedule and remaining schedules below:

Bostons' Remaining Schedule:

Boston at New York-(Weekend Series)
Boston at Baltimore

Tampa Bays' Remaining Schedule:

Toronto at Tampa Bay-(Weekend Series)
New York at Tampa Bay

Los Angeles' Remaining Schedule:

Oakland at Los Angeles-(Weekend Series)
Texas at Los Angeles

The way the remaining schedules look for the wild-card race. It appears Boston has the toughest road ahead to maintain their slight edge on the wild-card race. If anybody had an edge to win the AL wild-card race, it would appear it's the Angels. Tampa Bay hosts Toronto this weekend, who has been hot of late. After the series with Toronto, Tampa Bay host the AL East Champion New York Yankees. As it would appear, the wild-card contenders will be facing some challenges in the last six games of the season.

Home Field Advantage Battle:

Texas Remaining Schedule:

Seattle at Texas
Texas at Los Angeles

Detroit Remaining Schedule:

Baltimore at Detroit
Cleveland at Detroit

AL and NL Wild-Card Races Are Shaping-Up To Be A Battle To The End!

The wild-card races are going down to the wire in both leagues. The Boston Redsox are hanging on with a 2 1/2 game league over both the Los Angeles Angels and Tampa Bay Rays. The Redsox are struggling to win games, Bostons' long time rival New York seems to be bailing them out. New York helped Boston out by sweeping the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Los Angeles Angels have been winning of late, trying to stay in the american league western division race. While the Angels have been winning, so have the division leading Rangers. The Rangers currently seem to be in control with a 5 game lead on the Angels and a magic number of 3 with any combination of an Angels loss or a Rangers win. However, with the Angels continuing to win they have drawn closer to the wild-card race, while both Boston and Tampa Bay have been losing of late.

AL Wild-Card Standings:

Team                W      L      PCT      GB
Boston               88      68     .564         -
Los Angeles       85      70     .548      2 1/2
Tampa Bay        85      70     .548      2 1/2

Wild-Card Playoffs just beginning. This is the "Great" time of the year in Major League baseball. Scoreboard watching, where every game counts. A loss could mean your team stays home to watch the postseason at home.

"THE ROAD TO THE FALL CLASSIC"









The national league wild-card race is no different from the american league. The Atlanta Braves are struggling to win games down the stretch. The St. Louis Cardinals are peeking at the right time, winning game after game it seems. When you thought the Cardinals were out of the playoffs, well here they are only 1 1/2 games behind the Atlanta Braves in the wild-card race.

The defending World Champions are 4 games behind Atlanta. The Giants virtually needs to win all their games to have a shot at making the postseason. The Giants need help from the Braves and Cardinals opponents to have a chance.

The way the national league wild-card race is shaping up thoug, it looks to really be a two team race. Even though Atlanta is holding on for dear life, St. Louis seems to have the advantage even though they are trailing by 1 1/2 games.

NL Wild-Card Standings:

Team                W      L      PCT      GB
Atlanta               88     68     .564         -
St. Louis            86     69     .555      1 1/2
San Francisco    83      71     .539         4

Wild-Card Playoffs just beginning. This is the "Great" time of the year in Major League baseball. Scoreboard watching, where every game counts. A loss could mean your team stays home to watch the postseason at home.

"THE ROAD TO THE FALL CLASSIC"

NL Wild-Card Race Is Heating Up!

The National league divisional races, are close to being clinched. However, the wild-card race is heating up. The Atlanta Braves are currently up by 2 1/2 games on the St. Louis Cardinals and 3 1/2 games up on the defending World Champion San Francisco Giants.

Going into last nights game Atlanta was up by 3 1/2 games on the Cardinals, until they lost to the Florida Marlins 6-5. While St Louis defeated Philadelphia 4-3. The three team wild-card race is heating up and a lot of scoreboard watching will be going on the rest of the season. The NL wild-card race is so intense, it's as good as the playoffs.

The defending World Champion San Francisco Giants are currently 5 1/2 games behind Arizona and the St. Louis Cardinal are also 5 1/2 games behind Milwaukee. The only way Atlanta can make the playoffs is by winning the wild-card race, where as both St. Louis and San Francisco have an outside shot at winning their division.

Wild-Card Race and Remaining Schedules Below:

Wild-Card Standings

Team                W      L        PCT        GB
Atlanta               87    67        .565           -
St. Louis            84    69        .549        2 1/2
San Francisco    83    70        .542        3 1/2

Remaining Schedules:

Atlanta

9-20-21 at Florida
9-22-25 at Washington
9-26-28 vs Philadelphia

St. Louis

9-20-22 vs New York
9-23-25 vs Chicago
9-26-28 at Houston

San Francisco

9-20-22 at Los Angeles
9-23-25 at Arizona
9-26-28 vs Colorado

For the National League wild-card race, all you can say is "GAME ON."

Other Major League News:

Boston Redsox split twin-bill with the Baltimore Orioles, to maintain a 2 game lead in AL wild-card race.
Yankees' Mariano Rivera tops the Major League saves list, with 602.
Angels lose to Toronto 3-2, to fall 5 games behind the Texas Rangers.

Two Playoff Races In American League!

While the Texas Rangers have a 4 1/2 game lead on the Los Angeles Angels and a magic number of 6 games, with any combination with a Rangers win and an Angels loss in American League West division. The Detroit Tigers have won the American League Central division and are in the playoffs. The race between the Tigers and Rangers is to see which team wins home field advantage to play the winner of the tight wild card race between Boston, Tampa Bay, and Los Angeles.

Texas will begin a three game series Tuesday night against the Oakland A's, while the Angels will be opening up a four game series in Toronto tonight. After this weeks games the American League West divisional race could be over by the time the Rangers and Angels meet in the season ending three game series in Anaheim, CA.

The home field advantage race is very tight between the Tigers and Rangers. Currently the Tigers have a one game lead over the Rangers. The Tigers record is 89-64, while the Rangers record is 88-65. Both, Tigers and Rangers are playing outstanding baseball, and seem to be peeking at the right time. The Rangers remaining schedule is three games with the A's, Mariners (3), and Angels (3), while the Tigers remaining schedule is against Royals(2), Orioles (4), and Indians (3). This is the time of the year for scoreboard watching, anybody that's a baseball fan will be watching for at least another week. Then the road to the "Fall Classic" will begin.

The wild card race is a very tight race between three teams, but really can come down to only two teams. See the wild card standings below:

AL Wild Card Standings:

Team              W      L      PCT      GB
Boston             87     65     .572         -
Tampa Bay      85     67     .559         2
Los Angeles     83     69     .546         4

Tampa Bay has been probably one of the hottest teams in baseball down the stretch, while Boston has been hurting of late and hope to hang on to the wild card lead. If you like "scoreboard" watching then this will be your cup of tea.

AL West Is Coming Down To The Wire!

The Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels Divisional race seems to be coming down to the wire. The only current divisional race in the American League is between the Ranger and Angels. Texas is currently leading the Angels by three games and have a magic number of (11) to win the AL West.

The past few weeks the Rangers would have a seven game lead, then cut down to a two game lead. The Rangers have had some key injuries in that stretch, by losing Adrian Beltre and Nelson Cruz with hamstring injuries. Since Beltre has come off the DL to rejoin the Rangers his bat has been on fire. While Cruz has been out of the line-up and on the DL, David Murphy has stepped right in to play right field. Murphy has been a big part of the offensive production, as he was last year. Nelson Cruz was called back up this week, only as a pitch hitter. Rangers' manager Ron Washington said, Nelson Cruz is better, but not quite ready to play at full strength.

Questions have been asked, what are the Rangers planning to do with Murphy, when Cruz is ready to play at full strength? Since Murphy has been very productive at the plate, the best scenario would to keep Murphy into the line-up. David Murphy could move over to play left field, while Nelson Cruz plays in right field. If Ranger fans can remember, Murphy played a key roll in the incredible playoff run last year. Murphy has been a productive player for the Rangers, when he has been called on. The Rangers are fortunate to have deep positional players, who can step up when they are called on.

The Rangers seem to be back in the "swing" of things again, with the meat of the order about to be fully intact. Nelson Cruz could be in full strength within a few days or so. The Rangers are currently in a series with the Cleveland Indians and hoping to finish with a "sweep," before heading to the Great Northwest. The Rangers offense has been in full throttle throughout the series, by beating the Indians 10-4 and 9-1 in the first two games. Tonight the Rangers would like to have a 3 1/2 game lead, going into the weekend series with Seattle.

Remaining Schedules for Texas and Los Angeles Below:

Los Angeles Angels:

September 16-18 at Baltimore
September 19-22 at Toronto
September 23-25 vs Oakland
September 26-28 vs Texas

Texas Rangers:

September 15 vs Cleveland
September 16-18 at Seattle
September 19-22 at Oakland
September 23-25 vs Seattle
September 26-28 at Los Angeles

*The Rangers are also battling the Detroit Tigers for home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

Who Needs Berkman and His Salary For The Rest Of The Year?

Last week it was said, that Lance Berkman could move to Texas from St Louis. Well that has not happened and most likely won't happen. If the Rangers would have used Berkman's services it would have cost them $1.33 million for the rest of the 2011 season. Even though Berkman has had an All-Star type of year, his salary is pretty pricey for just a month or so.

However, seeing the Rangers' David Murphy catching on fire here of late, going 4 for 4, knocking in four runs in their 8-0 victory over the Rays last night. Who needs to have Berkman in the Rangers lineup. On paper it looked fantastic, but Murphy is filling Nelson Cruz's spot just fine. The most important part the Rangers are not out of $1.33 million. If you remember in last years World Series run, Murphy was a big part of the Rangers offense.

The only troubling thing the Rangers have to be concerned about in this years playoff run is their pitching. Last year the Rangers were fortunate to have the formidable Cliff Lee, who was the key player that brought the Rangers to the World Series. In the last three starts Wilson has had, he's had to come to the rescue. Are the other Ranger starters wearing out at a time they are needed the most? When Cruz comes back and  inserted into the lineup. Will that carry the Rangers over the edge to win the AL West?

"Who knows, only time will tell."

The Texas Rangers need to be thankful that they have David Murphy, who can step into Cruz's spot and deliver. "Most importantly Texas hangs on to $1.33 million."

Rangers' Leonys Martin-Dream To Major Leagues Was Realized Tuesday!

Arlington, TX- Rangers' Leonys Martin's dream to be in major leagues, was realized Tuesday night. Leonys Martin was called up from Triple-A Round Rock as an option for the Rangers to use in spot situations, since Nellie Cruz will be out for three weeks. Martin is a highly talented prospect, who defected from Cuba.

The Rangers options in right field position are David Murphy, Endy Chavez, Craig Gentry, and now Leonys Martin. Rangers' Murphy has been spot starting for the Rangers, since Nellie Cruz went on the 15 day disable list. Cruz will be out for three weeks. There has been some talk about getting Lance Berkman from the ST Louis Cardinals, to replace Cruz in right field. It would cost the Rangers $1.33 million for his services for the rest of the season.

Sources said, Berkman is not planning to leave the ST Louis Cardinals, nobody from the Cardinals organization has approached him about going to Texas. Berkman also, made it clear where ever he finishes up the 2011 season he, would want to stay for multiple years. He wants to stay some place for the rest of his career. He played for the Astros his entire career, until he went to the Yankees last year. He signed a one year contract with ST Louis this season. Berkman does not want to be bounced around from team to team for immediate service because of injuries. He wants to end his career with one team.

Prior to the rumors of him going to Texas, Berkman informed everyone that he felt that ST Louis would like to keep him and would extend his contract for multiple years. Berkman applied that he was not interested in going to play in Texas or anywhere else. He's happy in ST Louis.

Which Five Contenders Need Lance Berkman The Most:

1. Cleveland Indians
2. New York Yankees
3. Chicago Whitesox
4. San Francisco Giants
5. Texas Rangers

Rangers Have Options To Consider-For Key Injuries!

Arlington, TX- AL West leading Texas Rangers have experienced key injuries to Adrian Beltre and now Nellie Cruz, with hamstring injuries. With the pennant race with the Los Angeles Angels coming down to the wire, Texas has a couple of options to replace Cruz in right field. The in-house replacements include Murphy, Chavez, and Gentry. The Rangers are bringing up Leonys Martin from Triple-A Round Rock, who has been hitting .263.

However, the Rangers have been eyeing Lance Berkman, who's playing for the ST Louis Cardinals. ST Louis is 10 1/2 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in NL Central. ST. Louis being so far behind and Berkman only signing a one year contract, could make him available for the Rangers. Texas tried to sign Berkman before the season, he decided to play in ST Louis. Berkman went to ST Louis thinking he had a better chance of winning there. If the Rangers sign Berkman for part time services it would cost them $1.33 million in salary. Berkman has played well this season with ST Louis, hitting .289, 30 homers, and 81 RBI's.

Adrian Beltre is expected to be back with the Rangers as early as Wednesday. Beltre played seven innings at third base, going 1 for 4, striking out twice last night at Double-A Frisco. Beltre has been gone since July 23rd. Beltre has been gone so long, he would be like an extra batter in Texas' lineup. With Beltre coming back it will give Hamilton some protection in the lineup. That could allow Hamilton to really get going offensively down the stretch of the pennant race.

Sources in Major League baseball have said, the Rangers have been having conversations about purchasing Berkman for his services for the rest of the season. By the end of the week Texas could have Beltre and Berkman added to their already potent offense. With Texas moving in that direction to add Berkman to their lineup in place of Cruz, shows the respect they have for the Angels. Also, how important it is to repeat as AL West Champions, so they can defend their American League Championship from a year ago.

Texas' Nellie Cruz will be out for three weeks. Texas' reasoning for adding Berkman to their lineup is to fill their voided spot in the lineup. That will also allow an extra bat in their lineup for the stretch run, even when Nellie comes back. If Berkman becomes a Ranger that could also help them repeat as AL West Champions and help them to defend their only American League Championship in club history.

Rangers Comeback To Take Three Game Lead Over Angels In AL West!

Arlington, TX- The showdown continued on ESPN between the AL West division leading Rangers and the second place Angels. The series has been as exciting as we drew it up to be. No matter how good each teams pitching has been throughout the year. Whoever had the hotter bats, decided the outcome of this thrilling series. Homer after homer, run after run, no starting pitching decided this weekend series.
The Angels took an early lead scoring one run in the first two innings to take a 2-0 lead. Rangers' Torrealba hit a solo homer in the bottom of the second inning to cut the lead to 2-1. Toreallbas' solo homer was his fifth of the season. The Angels added to their lead by scoring two in the top of the third inning. Kendrick was hit by a pitch, was caught stealing second base. Bobby Abreu doubled to left fielder David Murphy, Lewis strikes out Hunter, Trumbo hits a double to left fielder David Murphy to score Abreu to make it 3-1. Vernon Wells singles to center fielder Josh Hamilton to score Trumbo to take a 4-1 lead.
When you thought that the Angels had a commanding lead at 4-1 with Weaver on the mound for the Angels, the Rangers showed why you can never count them out of any game. Ian Kinsler led off the bottom of the third inning with a walk, then Andrus tripled to center fielder Peter Bourjos to score Kinsler to cut the lead to 4-2. Josh Hamilton promptly hits his eighteenth homer of the season in center field to tie the game at four. Angels added one more run in the fifth inning when Kendrick hit his fourteenth homer of the season in the right field bleachers to give the Angels a 5-4 lead.
The Rangers broke the game open in the seventh inning by scoring four runs in the inning to take an 8-5 lead. Mike Adams replaced Darren Oliver, to face the middle of the Angels lineup. Adams had a 1-2-3 inning. Rangers added one more run in the bottom of the eighth inning to preserve a 9-5 win to take a three game lead over the Angels.
Rangers' Lewis pitched six innings giving up eight hits, allowing five runs. Darren Oliver earned his fifth win of the season. While the Angels' ace Jarred Weaver pitched six innings giving up eight hits, allowing seven earned runs losing his seventh game of the season..

Bad News For Ranger Fans!

Arlington, TX- Rangers' Adrian Beltre is continuing to have difficulties with his hamstring injury. Beltre is scheduled to go on a rehab assignment on Monday. The Rangers don't expect the assignment to help his hamstring be 100 percent. Ron Washington said, Beltre is going to have to manage with the injury the best that he can. Washington said, once you have an injury like this it will never be 100 percent for the rest of the season.

"Rangers will help him monitor the hamstring injury." Washington said, once you have a hamstring like this, you have to run under control.

Michael Young has been playing third base in Beltres' absence. Texas is fortunate that they are deep at third base and they can allow Beltre to heal his hamstring the best he can, so he can get back for the playoff run.

Halos Went Long Ball, To Draw Even In Weekend Series!

Arlington, TX- Saturday night the Halos and Rangers went to battle in game two of a three game series. The Halos needed an important win to stay close to the AL West Division leading Rangers. Texas had a chance to widen their lead to four games in the AL West, with a win.

The Rangers went long ball on Friday night, tonight the Halos hit four homers off C.J. Wilson. Wells, Trout, Wilson, and Bourjos hit solo shots. Wilson left the game after five innings pitched dishing out 10 hits and allowing six earned runs. The Rangers were behind 6-2 when Wilson exited the game. Rangers scored two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, when Cruz singled to right fielder Mike Trout. Santana threw a wild pitch and Cruz moved to second. Murphy then hit his seventh homer of the season, when he deposited it into the right field seats. Halos added two more runs in the top of the seventh inning, when Howie Kendrick homered off Uehara into center field to make it 7-4. Tori Hunter doubled to left fielder Josh Hamilton, Vernon Wells hit a triple up the alley between center fielder Endy Chavez and right fielder Nellie Cruz to score Tori Hunter from second base. Halos went on to defeat the Rangers 8-4 to pull within two games of the Rangers.

The Halos look to draw within one game after the Sundays night show down with the Rangers on ESPN. The Rangers are looking to bounce back when they send Colby Lewis to the mound. The Halos will have their ace pitcher Jared Weaver on the mound. Weaver is going tomorrow night with only three days rest.

Tomorrow Nights Game: Angels vs Rangers 7:05 (CST) On ESPN-HD

Rangers, Halos Weekend Series Continues!

Arlington, TX- The Rangers and Halos will continue their weekend series tonight at 7:05 pm (CST), with Ervin Santana (9-9) with a 3.17 ERA for LAA and C.J. Wilson (13-5) with a 3.08 ERA for Texas. Santana is starting tonights game with only three days rest, just coming off a eight inning outing throwing 115 pitches against the Whitesox. Wilson for the Rangers has been stronger in the second half of the season going 4-2 with a 2.78 ERA. This looks to be an outstanding match-up tonight, one that may be hard for either team to score very many runs.

The Rangers bats finally caught on fire in last nights game, scoring eleven runs in the game. Four runs coming off Murphy's grand slam and three more runs added by Cruz's three run blast. Nellie Cruz had the best game in 2011 season, by delivering 4 hits and 6 runs batted in.

The Halos offense has been hot in their six game winning streak, but stifled by the Texas early in last nights game. However, the Halos put up six runs against Texas' bullpen late in last nights game in their 11-7 loss. With the loss the Halos six game winning streak came to an end, falling three games behind Texas in AL West race.

Halos try to even up the weekend series with Texas to stay close in AL West Divisional race. Rangers will try to win the weekend series with a win tonight, to pull four games in front of the Halos.

Standings

American League West

Team	W	L	PCT	GB
Texas	75	58	.564	-
LA Angels	71	60	.542	3.0
Oakland	60	71	.458	14.0
Seattle	56	74	.431	17.5

Stay tuned for the outcome of Saturday nights AL West Divisional race game.

Murphy, Cruz Homers-Help Holland Cruz Past The Halos!

Arlington, TX- The battle in the AL West weekend started with Holland and the Rangers dominating Halo's early in the game. Derek Holland pitched 6 2/3 innings allowing 8 hits and 1 earned run. The Rangers offense scored three runs in the first three innings. David Murphy opened up the game by hitting a grandslam in the fifth inning to give Texas a 7-0 lead. Texas scored four more runs in the sixth inning, to open up an 11-0 lead. Cruz added a solo homer in the third inning and a three run homer in the sixth inning.

The Halos finally scored their first run in the top of the seventh inning. The game was in control of the game, but the Halos being the Halos they added four runs in the eighth and two more in the ninth. Halos fell short on their come back losing 11-7.

AL West Race Is Now Up For Grabs!

Arlington, TX- The Texas Rangers and the LA Angels are facing in a crucial AL West match-up this weekend. The beginning of this week Texas had a 4 game lead on the Halos, their lead has been wittled down to 2 games. The beginning of a crucial weekend series could set the tone on who will win the AL West. The Angels are coming into Texas with a six game winning streak on the line, and have been very hot. The Rangers just came off a series beating by the Boston Redsox, and the pitching staff has given up a total of 30 runs in the last three games all earned runs. Texas is glad to get the Bosox out of town. The Rangers shutout the Redsox on Monday night 4-0, but no offense sense.

The pitching match-ups for the AL West clash are below:

Dan Haren (13-6) vs Derek Holland (11-5)
Ervin Santana (9-9) vs C.J Wilson (13-5)
Jared Weaver (15-6) vs Colby Lewis (11-9)

Texas has had their way with the Angels thus far this year, but they also had their way with Boston until the four game series this week. Rangers and Angels do match-up well against each other, so tune in and watch the crucial match-up this weekend. If your a die hard baseball fan this series you will want to look in on.

MLB's Contenders Wrap-Up 8-24-11

The races are tightening up in AL West, AL East, and NL West. The other division leaders Detroit (AL Central), Milwaukee (NL Central), and Philadelphia (NL East) are starting to open up their leads in their respective divisions. Here are the run down on last nights action below:

American League:

The AL West leading Texas Rangers faced the AL East leading Boston Redsox in Arlington, TX. The red-hot Boston Redsox pounded out 16 hits, dominating the Texas team who have been struggling the last two games. Boston took charge early scoring 5 runs in the first two innings and never looked back. Boston defeated the AL West leading Rangers 13-2.

The second place Los Angeles Angels played in Anaheim, CA against the Chicago Whitesox. The Angels dominated the Whitesox from the start behind Weavers pitching gem. Angels went on to win 8-0 and pulled within 2 1/2 games behind the Rangers.

The second place Yankees hosted the Oakland A's. Oaklands Coco Crisp homered twice to help lead the A's to a 6-4 win. The A's clinched the series win over the Yankees, to end a 10 straight series loss. Yankees fell a game back to Boston in AL East.

National League:

The NL West leading Arizona Diamondbacks faced the Washington Nationals in DC. Arizonas' Daniel Hudson fell one out short of pitching his first career shutout. Hudson surrendered back-to back homers in the ninth. Arizona defeated Washington 4-2.

The second place San Francisco Giants faced the San Diego Padres. Lincecum pitched 8 solid innings giving up 4 hits and allowing 1 earned run. Stauffer who pitched for the Padres pitched 6 solid innings giving up 2 earned runs and allowing just 6 hits. The Giants were just a little better and won the game by a 2-1 margin.  The win for the Giants kept them within 2 games of the Diamondbacks.

News:

San Francisco signed Heath Bell off waivers from the San Diego Padres.

Tragic News:

Former Cy Young winner Mike Flannagan, who won 167 games over 18 seasons with Baltimore and the Toronto Blue Jays, was found dead outside his home Wednesday afternoon. The reason for his death was not immediately known. Flannagan was 59.

Neal