C.C. beat the Rangers and C.J. Wilson back on April 16th 5-1. That was a long time ago.
I do know the Rangers can beat Mariano Rivera. They did it twice this year.
Back on August 10th, Rivera came into a game at the Ballpark in Arlington in the bottom of the 10th inning with the score tied 3-3. He gave up singles to Michael Young and Josh Hamilton before getting Vladimir Guerrero to ground out. He intentionally walked Nelson Cruz to load the bases and David Murphy promptly hit a single to win the game. Rivera pitched 1/3 inning, giving up 3 hits and the winning run while picking up the loss.
On Septempber 11th, again at the Ballpark in Arlington, Rivera came in to close out the game with the Yankees up 6-5 in the bottom of the 9th. Guerrero walked, Cruz singled, Ian Kinsler doubled to tie the game. Chris Davis was intentionally walked, Andres Blanco popped out and Jeff Francouer got the big walk off Hit By Pitch to win the game 7-6. Rivera again pitched 1/3 inning, giving up 2 hits and 2 runs.
These two games represented 2 of Rivera's 3 losses on the season and 1 of his 4 blown saves. It also shows that Texas isn't going to give in, no matter which team they are facing and who is on the mound.
I'm feeling pretty optimistic about the Rangers chances. Of course I felt better about the Twins chances this year too - but Texas looked formidable against the Rays. Like many, I'll be cheering heartily for the Arlington crew.
ReplyDeleteGo Texas!
Um I love the Rangers, my top team. They have 6 Dominicans on the playoff roster and Vlad Guerrero is my favorite player of all-time.
ReplyDeleteI like where you are coming from, but I am pretty sure that was luck to come back on Rivera twice. I would hope they have a lead going into the 9th, because I don't want them to have to come back on Rivera.
It's time though, Go Rangers!
No they can't
ReplyDelete