:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69506951/usa_today_16309414.0.jpg)
The Texas Rangers scored nine runs and the Kansas City Royals scored four runs.
Mike Minor has certainly seen better days in Arlington as tonight the former Ranger All-Star starter allowed nine runs in his five innings of work as Texas bullied their way to a victory in the weekend series opener.
Besides the outburst from the batters, the Rangers shined especially on defense behind Dane Dunning as they made several outstanding plays in the field to keep their starter on the mound long enough to collect the win.
Dunning ultimately allowed two runs in five innings on 85 pitches. Of course, one of the runs came in the top of the third and the other came in the top of the fifth because Dunning only allows runs in odd-numbered innings.
However, Dunning avoided his usual first inning flare-up which eventually led to the Rangers grabbing a 4-2 lead by the time Dunning exited. The final out of Dunning’s evening sported perhaps the best defensive play of the season as Adolis Garcia proved that he’s more than just El Bombi.
He can go grab it, too.
Player of the Game: Hard to pick just one guy from the lineup but we’ll go with Nate Lowe who was 3-for-4 with a triple, two runs scored, and two RBI. The other leading contender was Jonah Heim who was 3-for-4 with a double, a run scored, and two RBI.
Overall, every member of the lineup had at least one hit besides Eli White and Garcia. Both White and Garcia came through with their gloves and Garcia added a couple of walks, a run scored, and a RBI as well.
Up Next: The Rangers will have an opportunity to secure a series win over the Royals tomorrow with RHP Kyle Gibson getting the call for Texas against starter to be determined for Kansas City. Saturday’s first pitch from The Shed is scheduled for 3:05 pm CT.