The Rangers behind Yu Darvish completed their second straight sweep today, defeating the Astros 2-1 behind Darvish’s 15 strikeouts. The Rangers have now won eight straight, all of them against AL West competition.
The Athletics are keeping pace, winning today and staying just one game behind the Rangers. The Rangers have also won twelve of their last thirteen. I would say they are on a roll. They just completed their first ever 9-1 road trip as well.
The pitching is down right amazing right now, and the offense is scoring runs with runners in scoring position. This team looks like a team that is ready for the post season. The only downsides I can think of (sorry, but I have to think of some downsides) is the fact that it is still only August and the Rangers are playing non-post season talented teams right now. Of course, to get to the post season, you have to beat the less talented teams when you get the chance.
The Rangers now come home to face the Brewers for two games, and them they get an off day. I have a feeling Alex Rios will get a warm welcome from his new home crowd, seeing the impact he has already had as a Ranger. I hope to post an article after the Brewers series called “Ten Straight”. We will just have to wait and see if that will happen!
