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Thoughts on a 4-1 Rangers win

By Adam J. Morris
May 18, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) slides into second with a double against the Houston Astros in the fifth inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-US PRESSWIRE
May 18, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) slides into second with a double against the Houston Astros in the fifth inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-US PRESSWIRE

Rangers 4, Astros 1

  • The whole "Silver Boot" thing is dumb, and I hope that it is retired after this year.
  • Neftali Feliz had one of those outings that makes you question whether he will be able to be a starter long-term. 101 pitches in 4.2 innings, 51 balls, 50 strikes, 5 walks, 1 HBP, 6 Ks. He only gave up 1 run, but got lifted with one out in the fifth with runners on.
  • Robbie Ross had another strong outing in relief of Feliz, going 2.1 innings, striking out 1 and giving up 1 hit. I think he's got the inside track to replace Colby Lewis next season.
  • I don't understand using Joe Nathan tonight for the fourth game in a row. He's 37 years old, coming off Tommy John surgery, and you have a three run lead, with Chris Johnson, Jason Castro, and the pitcher's spot due up. Mark Lowe, Alexi Ogando, and Scott Feldman are all capable of getting those final three outs, or you can not pinch hit for Koji Uehara and let him pitch the 9th. It was, I believe, a needless risk, and also means he's definitely out tomorrow.

  • Looking at the box score, the Rangers should have scored more than 4 runs today. 14 baserunners, only 4 came home, one of them on a home run by Adrian Beltre.
  • Big days for Ian Kinsler and Michael Young, both of whom have been scuffling of late. Kinsler was 3 for 5, and Young was 2 for 3 with a walk.
  • Mike Napoli, on the other hand, continues to struggle, going 0 for 4, and is now 2 for his last 17.