ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers continue to separate themselves in the American League West.
Nathan Eovaldi turned in seven strong innings, along with the Rangers’ lineup erupting early to defeat the Seattle Mariners 7-1 Saturday night at Globe Life Field.
The win gives Texas a 2-0 lead in the pivotal four-game series between the division rivals.
The Rangers wasted little time taking control, scoring three runs in the opening inning before adding two more in the second.
The early cushion allowed Eovaldi to settle into one of his most efficient starts of the season.
The veteran right-hander scattered three hits over seven innings, allowing one run while striking out eight and walking one to earn his 10th victory.
Seattle rarely threatened against Eovaldi, who retired 15 of the final 17 batters he faced.
Texas’ offense continued its recent surge with contributions throughout the lineup.
Wyatt Langford went 3 for 4 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored before exiting after fouling a pitch off his foot.
Joc Pederson also collected three hits, while Ezequiel Duran finished with two RBIs. Evan Carter and Alejandro Osuna each drove in a run as the Rangers totaled 12 hits.
Seattle’s lone run came in the fifth inning, but the Mariners managed just five hits against Texas pitching. Bryan Woo took the loss after allowing five runs in five innings.
The victory improved the Rangers to 53-51 and pushed their lead over Seattle to 2½ games atop the American League West.
Texas has won the first two games of the series after rallying for a 5-4 victory Friday night, strengthening its position in one of baseball’s most competitive division races.
Up next
The series continues Sunday at Globe Life Field with another marquee pitching matchup.
Texas is expected to start Jacob deGrom against Seattle’s Logan Gilbert as the Rangers try to clinch the four-game series and extend their division lead.
First pitch is scheduled for 1:35 p.m. CDT. ESPN projects the matchup as one of the premier games on Sunday’s MLB schedule, featuring two of the league’s top starting pitchers.
About the Author
