Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Texas Rangers 5, Seattle Mariners 4
Josh Hamilton homers off Putz in the top of the ninth to seal Texas' first win of 2008.
The Texas Rangers scratched and clawed their way back to .500 Tuesday night in Seattle, using a huge blast in the top of the ninth to close out the heavily-favored Mariners 5-4. Newcomer Josh Hamilton --a former first-round draft bust who revived his career last year with Cincinnati-- connected on a two-run shot in the top of the ninth off once-invincible All-Star closer J.J. Putz.
Photo not provided by the Seattle Mariners
A ominous sign for Mariners fans: last season, it took until July 25th for Putz to blow his first save of the year. Joaquín Benoit, who pitched poorly in the eighth and allowed the Mariners back into the game, got the win, while new closer C.J. Wilson threw a near-perfect ninth for his first save of the year. The Rangers got an excellent start from Vicente Padilla, who gave up just one run and eight hits in six strong innings.
In stark contrast to the constipated offensive effort of their first game, the Rangers' hitters were much improved Tuesday, with ten hits, five walks and only five strikeouts. Josh Hamilton led the way, going 2-for-5 with two runs and two RBI, including his game-winning home run. David Murphy again went 2-for-4, with a run scored and an RBI double in the eighth to put the Rangers up 3-1 at the time. And Hank Blalock went 2-for-4 with a pair of doubles and a run scored.
Posted by Todd M.
