ARLINGTON, TX — The Texas Rangers rallied in spectacular fashion during the sixth inning on Friday evening, overcoming the Kansas City Royals with a pivotal five-run burst to secure a 6-2 victory at Globe Life Field.
The inning ignited with Adolis García, Nathaniel Lowe, and Wyatt Langford hitting a succession of a single, a double, and another single, quickly evening the score at 2-2. The Rangers then pulled ahead 3-2 on Jonah Heim’s fielder’s choice play. With Robbie Grossman drawing a walk and Leody Taveras narrowly reaching first on an infield hit, the bases were primed for Marcus Semien, who delivered a compelling double into the left-field corner to drive in three runs and cement a four-run lead for Texas.
Prior to this explosive inning, the Rangers’ bats have notably been quiet, recording five or fewer hits in seven outings this month, and tallying five or fewer runs in 11 of June’s contests.
Nathan Eovaldi’s pitching prowess was on full display, as he limited the Royals to just two runs across six innings on four hits and a walk, while also tallying six strikeouts.
On the opposite mound, Royals’ Brady Singer managed to restrain the Rangers to a single run over five innings on three hits and two walks. However, the combination of Royals relievers John Schreiber and Sam Long encountered turbulence in the sixth, surrendering the five runs on five hits and a walk.
Friday’s Game Highlights:
1. Wyatt Langford Shines in June
Wyatt Langford is making notable strides this June. The rookie outfielder showcased his talent with a 2 for 4 performance at the plate, securing two RBI, which included converting a standard single into a double. Since returning from a hamstring injury, Langford has been a consistent offensive force, leading the Rangers with 12 RBI this month and reaching base in 14 of his last 15 games.
2. Bullpen Dynamics
The Rangers’ bullpen saw Jose Leclerc navigate through a turbulent seventh inning until Bruce Bochy decided to bring in David Robertson after Leclerc allowed a two-out single that put two Royals on base. Robertson effectively quashed the threat, striking out Salvador Perez. Leclerc’s walks continue to be a concern, with 21 walks in 32 2/3 innings this year.
3. Looking Forward
The Rangers are set to have right-hander Jon Gray (2-3, 3.31 ERA) start Saturday’s 3:05 p.m. game, while the Royals have yet to announce their starting pitcher.
The Rangers will look to maintain their offensive momentum and further their success in the series, buoyed by the recent upswing in their batting performance and strategic bullpen utilization.
