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Good morning. I'm doing the morning links today because Adam filled in for me earlier in the week because my Internet service probably melted in the 117 degree weather. Here's some stuff about a nice win from the Rangers last night:
Katy Clarke recaps the Rangers' 5-3 big comeback win over the Rays as Texas pulled back to .500 and are within 2 1/2 games of a *playoff spot.
Anthony Andro's game story features Delino DeShields showing impressive pop for his first big league home run as he tied the game in the 7th inning.
T.R. Sullivan writes that home runs from DeShields and Josh Hamilton, in his return to the lineup, helped the Rangers pick up a game on the Rays who are now just a half a game ahead of the Rangers in the AL standings.
Stefan Stevenson writes that Hamilton's knee still isn't 100% healthy and probably won't be this season but he's managing the discomfort and playing after an MRI showed no structural damage.
Sullivan has notes on Hamilton's knees, positive news on the injured catcher duo, the latest Ranger to succumb to TOS, and more.
Our pal John Paschal wrote a week or so ago at Fangraphs about Martin Perez not only being back, but looking like he's back. I thought it would be worth checking out after Perez's latest outing.
Tim Cowlishaw chatted over at the DMN and answered a question about the recent string of bizarre moves by Jeff Banister.
Sullivan notes that Cole Hamels' groin is looking good (probably the doctor's official diagnosis) after a bullpen session yesterday and he is on track to start Monday's opener against Seattle.
MLB.com's Bill Chastain previews tonight's second game between the Rangers and Rays as Texas has the tough task of beating Chris Archer if they want to win their sixth straight game at home.
Finally, Jeff Passan wrote that baseball should do away with divisions since practically half the dang league makes the playoffs now and it just made me mad about the second Wild Card again.
P.S. I'm rooting for the Rangers to make the playoffs via the second wild card as it is their best chance to do so. Haters can't be October choosers.
Have a nice weekend.
