Texas Rangers’ Offense Obliterates Foes in Split Squad

Thursday v. Cincinnati Reds

The Texas Rangers clobbered the Cincinnati Reds 12-5, in the early game of a split squad Thursday for the Rangers. Chi Chi Gonzalez got the starting nod and performed very well, tossing 5 innings of one hit shutout ball. The terrific outing was much needed for Gonzalez as he continues his pursuit of the 5th starter spot. Andrew Faulkner got another multi-inning outing in relief and looked very good despite giving up his first run of the spring.

On the offensive side, the Rangers flexed their muscles repeatedly, connecting for 5 home runs on the day. Those 5 home runs included 2 by Justin Ruggiano, who is making a late spring push for a bench spot, and a massive dinger by prospect Ronald Guzman that completely exited the stadium to right field. Home runs by Adrian Beltre and Mitch Moreland rounded out the Rangers’ power parade.

Thursday v. Oakland A’s

The Texas Rangers continued their offensive onslaught in the nightcap with a 12-1 thrashing of the Oakland A’s. In a continuation of the trend started by Gonzalez earlier in the day, both A.J. Griffin and Cesar Ramos put up strong performances. Griffin threw 5 innings of one run ball, and Ramos shut out the A’s for 3 innings to round out a pristine day for Rangers’ 5th starter candidates.

The offense continued to roll, hanging a 12 spot on A’s pitching. Ronald Guzman made an appearance in this game as well, cracking a 2 run single in his only at bat to bring his RBI total for the day to 5. Pedro Ciriaco also notched 3 RBI’s with a triple. Ultimately the Texas Rangers finished the evening with 13 hits and 7 walks as every starter except for Drew Robinson reached base at least once.

Up Next

The Rangers’ will return to action late on Friday in an evening meeting with the San Diego Padres. First pitch is scheduled for 8:05 PM with opening day starter Cole Hamels on the mound for the Rangers.