Rangers Relievers Let Another One Slip Away

Over the past two seasons Brandon McCarthy has done little live up to his live up the amount of promise heaped upon him early in his career. But after spending most o fthe last few years injured, McCarthy appears to be finally rounding into form, going six strong innings tonight, surrendering three earned runs and striking out five hitters. However, once again a quality effort by a Rangers starting pitcher is spoiled by the bullpen as tonight it was Eddie Guardado's turn to come in and hand the opposing team another win.

Texas opened the game with a series of solo homeruns by Michael Young, Nelson Cruz (who only seems to hit them when no one is on base) & Chris Davis. McCarthy wasn't perfect, surrendering a few solo homeruns of his own to Aubrey Huff and Luke Scott, but left with the score tied 3-3.



C.J. Wilson came in and went 1 2/3 innings, striking out two before once again getting into trouble with a couple of walks, eventually giving way to Frank Francisco who again looked dominant, going 1 1/3, striking out two.

But Texas was unable to push across baserunners in both the 7th and 8th innings, leading to extra innings where, in the top of the 10th, Orioles CF Adam Jones took an 0-1 pitch out for a homerun. That was followed by a Nick Markakis single and, after an Aubrey Huff fly out, a Ty Wigginton walk. Luke Scott then doubled to center, scoring both Markakis & Wigginton.

In the bottom of the 10th, Texas started off hot getting singles by Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Omar Vizquel, Ian Kinsler (scoring Salty) and Michael Young. Josh Hamilton then grounded into a fielder's choice, scoring Vizquel. But, despite a couple of good hacks, both Hank Blalock and Nelson Cruz (again coming up short with men on) flied out to the warning track, ending the ballgame.

Final Score:
Baltimore - 7
Texas - 5