Rangers Crush the Tribe “Ogando Style”

If you read our preview yesterday, Stacy pretty much hit the nail on the head. “The starter that gets on the mound tonight isn’t going to allow many runs – if any at all. Both starters for tonight – from both sides of the field – started off tremendously well this year; however, one of them has fallen through in a few games and guess what? It wasn’t ours!” Our prophetic lead writer called this one a mile away. The Rangers didn’t allow many runs, and busted up Cleveland to win 11-2.

We have come to expect quite a bit from Alexi Ogando, and the masterful young pitcher did not disappoint. Eight innings, four hits allowed, and only one run scored. He also picked up six strikeouts while only allowing one walk. Ogando is now 6—0, and has put himself in the All Star Game at the very least. Personally I’m ready for the Cy Young talk to begin. I’m not sure the last time we had a pitcher I was this excited about; the Rangers are historically a hit first/pitch later team. After last night Alexi has brought his ERA to an impressive 2.20.

Earlier in the day it was announced by Rangers officials that Julio Borbon would be optioned to Triple-A Round Rock. What this meant, was that Endy Chavez has earned the position of the starting center-fielder. With that decision, the Rangers were quickly rewarded. Last night Chavez, batting from the nine hole, was 3 for 5 with 2 RBI. Chavez’ batting average on the season is an impressive .435, granted this is a small sample size.

Other monsters in the game included Josh Hamilton who had a three run homer, Nelson Cruz who had a two run homer, and Elvis Andrus who was 4 for 5 with 3 RBI. Yoshinori Tateyama came in to relieve Ogando in the ninth and got some work in, he allowed a home run but picked up two strikeouts.

A great night to be a Rangers fan!

-Jonathan