tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60618007889857671822024-03-14T10:23:57.998-05:00Texas Rangers CardsCollecting the Texas Rangers.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.comBlogger1848125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-66002877359376289032016-11-05T11:20:00.000-05:002016-11-05T11:20:13.431-05:00Royal Delivery.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfHAaDOUPXfST1glfESeujx4s9hM2SDAw2sJLOEjgs-D5FcdoYPoYCF2hUB85mO-mX2jw8NgH9b4r-b9Zl7dtJ8tc9YdsdBl9il0W3Efmn1S4WrRdXZlh4IXn3ydaUbqhTB7mTWX1dv0/s1600/2015+Topps+Highlights+%2523H-54.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfHAaDOUPXfST1glfESeujx4s9hM2SDAw2sJLOEjgs-D5FcdoYPoYCF2hUB85mO-mX2jw8NgH9b4r-b9Zl7dtJ8tc9YdsdBl9il0W3Efmn1S4WrRdXZlh4IXn3ydaUbqhTB7mTWX1dv0/s320/2015+Topps+Highlights+%2523H-54.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Long time friend, reader, and Royals fan extraordinaire Mark sent me a small group of Rangers inserts from recent sets. Among the cards he sent my way was this 2015 Topps Highlight card of Nolan Ryan. The card recalls Nolan's amazing seventh no-hitter in 1991.<br />
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Along with Ryan, Mark also sent along 14 other Rangers inserts. Most of them filled holes in my collection. A few (Prince Fielder) brought back some bad memories but most of them were like this Nolan, they brought to mind why I enjoy the Rangers, most of the time at least.<br />
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Thanks a ton Mark. Have a few Royals set aside for you and hope to be able to send a stack your way soon. It won't be as good as the one you sent me but you should enjoy it anyway.<br />
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This catches me up on the cards that arrived while I was recently away from the blog. Now I just need to get back to regular posting. The motivation for that is spotty but I will be trying to make the time to get things rolling again here at Texas Rangers Cards.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-41349639936354660852016-11-04T11:12:00.000-05:002016-11-04T11:12:04.077-05:00Package According to the Rule.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdt0JLoWLwe6qe9jsebm6-Ir7IiLzpfNA5Do6puJSlvzcohk3BW2phxmjymNAypmi_BVJykRW5CtPgY8kAxCZwYNekZTWXLwyh5vOM2_jlCfuP2sJ6Q9JFwJ6tpRLvwFkGwggNLm0HnAs/s1600/1990+Upper+Deck+%2523355.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdt0JLoWLwe6qe9jsebm6-Ir7IiLzpfNA5Do6puJSlvzcohk3BW2phxmjymNAypmi_BVJykRW5CtPgY8kAxCZwYNekZTWXLwyh5vOM2_jlCfuP2sJ6Q9JFwJ6tpRLvwFkGwggNLm0HnAs/s320/1990+Upper+Deck+%2523355.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div>
Ruben Sierra seems happy on card 355 of the 1990 Upper Deck set. Kind of a rare thing, to see Ruben Sierra smiling.<br />
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This card was part of a stack of Rangers cards sent my way by Adam over at <a href="http://infieldflyrulecards.blogspot.com/">Infield Fly Rule</a>. The package made me smile like Ruben. Hopefully not as rare an occurrence as with him but one that was needed nonetheless.<br />
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Along with Sierra, Adam sent 35 other Rangers cards. He managed to hit several holes in different team sets. Most importantly, Adam gave me a smile.<br />
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Many thanks Adam. I really appreciate the cards and the thought. Hope to be able to return the gesture sometime soon.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-32945055564669769252016-11-03T11:05:00.000-05:002016-11-03T11:05:30.015-05:00Returns.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcfSZMbEwHoTtMHQ8g1iVm3gsfMdg2tPBE8GHB4j1WA-z1xksM1nYeJRdUyxEPrg0U-Lp9VON-53NLdv4kQbnIC9kBZMd35OUM5qcP_g_EkrHpGCX_Y-kt_KT_U1cHPCtob58z_OvI99g/s1600/1983+Topps+%2523412.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcfSZMbEwHoTtMHQ8g1iVm3gsfMdg2tPBE8GHB4j1WA-z1xksM1nYeJRdUyxEPrg0U-Lp9VON-53NLdv4kQbnIC9kBZMd35OUM5qcP_g_EkrHpGCX_Y-kt_KT_U1cHPCtob58z_OvI99g/s320/1983+Topps+%2523412.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
Well, once again it's been a long while since I wrote. Lots going on in life recently and that's interfered with my blog. One of those things was more computer issues. In all the confusion and transferring of data I lost most of the images of cards I have scanned in over the years for the blog. The last time this happened (a few months ago) I took the time to re-scan the lost images. This time I will not. The result may be that you occasionally see cards posted in the future that you have already seen. I apologize in advance for that. I'll be making every effort to avoid that happening but I am on the verge of shuttering Texas Rangers Cards for good so I really can't afford the time to re-scan the lost cards images.<br />
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While I was away the mail kept arriving. A few folks remembered me and sent some Rangers for my collection. I will post those packages in the coming days. Also, a few long awaited autograph requests returned as well.<br />
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One of the returns was from Charlie Hough. Mr. Hough signed this 1983 Topps card featuring him and Buddy Bell as well as signing a 1984 Topps card of his. I sent both cards out on March 3, 2016 and they arrived back home on Sepember 26th. Also coming home were signed cards from former Ranger Dickie Noles (sent October 28, 2015, returned November 1, 2016) and former Senator Ken Hamlin (sent January 13, 2016, returned September 30, 2016). Many thanks to all three of these gentlemen for taking of their time to sign and return cards for a fan.<br />
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Last night the Cubs broke their curse and won the World Series for the first time since 1908. While I was pulling for the Indians to take the crown I have to admit, not too many teams get three chances to close out a championship and still fail to get it done. Congratulations to the Cubbies for the long-awaited ring. Condolences to the Tribe and their fans. I know the pain of seeing your team lose a close one like that.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-14450629391499346502016-09-22T11:11:00.001-05:002016-09-22T11:11:54.028-05:00Fences and a Trip to Houston.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow! I knew I had gotten busy this summer and slacked off the blog. I didn't realize it has been almost a month since I posted. Lots going on that ate up my posting time. In the meantime the Rangers managed to get their magic number to clinch the American League West down to two games. Looks like they might well clinch in Oakland again.<br />
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Perhaps the biggest thing I had going was a fence replacement. This last spring a portion of our back fence blew down. The neighbor and I repaired it but it was obvious the time was short before a new fence would be needed. We crunched numbers and decided to wait until September to get the project done. Out came the old fence and in went the new. At least for about 60% of my yard. Now one of the other neighbors is talking about replacing the fence between us within the next month or so. That's going to take some more time but will almost completely give me a new fence to keep the dog and kids in.<br />
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In the midst of the fence endeavor, Spiff Jr and I took a short trip down to Houston to follow the Rangers to Minute Maid Park. We watched the game on September 12th. Took some time to walk around the park before the game. It was my first time in an enclosed stadium and I wasn't really impressed. Not that there was anything just terribly wrong, Minute Maid is a nice park. I just prefer outside baseball I guess. Hopefully the Rangers new enclosed park will be left open most of the time. The other thing that struck me was that there were almost as many Rangers fans there as Astros fans. Hopefully the Rangers can avoid that problem as well. The Rangers winning the contest in extras put a great finish to the night.<br />
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Of course, we had to check out the local card shop before the game. I found the Houston Sports Connection online prior to our trip and we made it a point to get there. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't Duane's Sportscards in Arlington. The shop employees were friendly and we picked up some needed supplies. The shop was cluttered though and seemed to be focused on high-end cards and autographed memorabilia. I didn't see a single quarter box or very many common cards at all, even of the Astros. We did manage to find several game-used and autographed Rangers cards though, including the pictured 2004 Leaf Second Edition Kevin Mench auto. The prices on those weren't unreasonable but it didn't take long for Spiff Jr to run through his budget. I think he would have preferred some lower priced cards to take a look at. All things considered, if I am ever in Houston again I will probably try to stop by again.<br />
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All in all the trip was great. We had some guy time, hit a card shop, and got to a game. Can't beat that. Unfortunately the fall is just as busy as the summer was. Another fence project, Spiff Jr back to playing ball, and several other family activities could make it a challenge to keep up on the posting. I'll do my best though to stay on top of things and not be a stranger.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-58545065164754123092016-08-30T10:18:00.002-05:002016-08-30T10:18:58.920-05:00Rangers top Mariners.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtkjZ8MJe6p1s1QGvc4pIBFuOhDdtI29YkgqDGaa9qUmNhjfmLzF_x0iZ04n_OIb3BHZEU0gbN695btO5Fq7-1eBHAUN_wXjfW1AL4c-uHDPYnIvt-byYqAr_v6P8BEv5Tgyd0LnhHx0/s1600/2013+Topps+Heritage+%2523125.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtkjZ8MJe6p1s1QGvc4pIBFuOhDdtI29YkgqDGaa9qUmNhjfmLzF_x0iZ04n_OIb3BHZEU0gbN695btO5Fq7-1eBHAUN_wXjfW1AL4c-uHDPYnIvt-byYqAr_v6P8BEv5Tgyd0LnhHx0/s320/2013+Topps+Heritage+%2523125.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div>
Last night the Rangers kicked off a three game series against the Seattle Mariners. From this point on, 24 of the remaining 30 games in the season are against other American League West teams. If somebody is going to try to make a move to knock Texas out of first place, it's now or never.<br />
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The Mariners had to go through Yu Darvish, shown here on card 125 of the 2013 Topps Heritage set, last night to beat the Rangers. They weren't able to do it. In 6.2 innings Darvish struck out nine while allowing three earned runs. To be fair, two of those runs crossed home after Yu was relieved by an ineffective Jake Diekman with two outs in the seventh inning.<br />
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Keone Kela took over from Diekman to end the seventh with no further damage. Kela also handled the eighth without incident. Sam Dyson came on in the ninth and notched his 30th save of the season.<br />
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While all that was going on, the offense was not silent. The Rangers scoring charge was led by Carlos Beltran, whom I do not have a Rangers card of. Carlos went 3-for-4 at the plate with a home run, double, and two RBI. Ian Desmond and Adrian Beltre also chimed in with doubles while Nomar Mazara contributed a triple. All told, the Rangers put six runs on the board. Enough for a 6-3 victory.<br />
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Always good to down a division foe. Nice effort by Darvish to tamp down the potent Seattle offense. Also a very good night for Beltran to break out of career-worst slump. I was beginning to wonder if he had fallen off the age cliff. Diekman is not really a concern with his troubles, after all it was his third outing in a row. He probably just needs a day or two off to be back to the Jake Diekman Rangers fans are used to.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-43050858369251936762016-08-25T11:04:00.000-05:002016-08-25T11:04:05.418-05:00Darvish did what?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijE8e7W-WE-Y-lpPET7hIAK_QvUonveJnBpIhq7xap8Q6xldmrGEtk9NV2u4B7FUmppY9hSD3GYJtnZdJ8nyIqtBYrThTwTNairnNEq4ZImiTKWSWWb1QKTH7SRIUPw61zNtRmtXN8nsk/s1600/2013+Allen+and+Ginter+%252374.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijE8e7W-WE-Y-lpPET7hIAK_QvUonveJnBpIhq7xap8Q6xldmrGEtk9NV2u4B7FUmppY9hSD3GYJtnZdJ8nyIqtBYrThTwTNairnNEq4ZImiTKWSWWb1QKTH7SRIUPw61zNtRmtXN8nsk/s320/2013+Allen+and+Ginter+%252374.jpeg" width="222" /></a></div>
Ok, I know Thursday is normally a game-used or autograph card day. Problem is, I don't have any game-used or autograph cards of Yu Darvish, something I must remedy soon. Anyway, Yu's 2013 Allen and Ginter card, number 74, will be filling in today.<br />
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Darvish had a rough night last night on the mound against the Reds. He pitched just six innings, allowing five runs. Only three of those five runs were earned but Yu battled his control as he walked five and hit a batter while striking out five. That's not normal Darvish.<br />
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Darvish taking his cuts at the plate is not normal Darvish either but the game was in Cincinnati and so National League rules were in place. It is generally accepted that the American League pitchers come off poorly on offense as compared to the National League hurlers. Last night was the exception as Yu hammered a solo shot in the fifth inning. Ian Desmond followed up with a long ball of his own to go back-to-back with Darvish.<br />
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Unfortunately, Yu's control struggles and some defensive miscues by Texas assured that his home run would not be the difference maker in the game. While the Rangers bullpen put up three scoreless innings in relief, the offense was not dependent on Darvish and Desmond alone. Nomar Mazara started off the scoring for the night with a three run bomb in the second inning.<br />
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By the time the eighth inning rolled around the score stood at 5-5. Desmond started off the Rangers rally by getting hit by a pitch. He stole second to advance into scoring position. Adrian Beltre, hero of so many games, came through again for the Rangers with a double that scored Desmond to give Texas a 6-5 lead that they held on to for the rest of the game.<br />
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While Darvish's pitching struggles are frustrating, they are not overly alarming. Yu is still on the road back from his Tommy John Surgery and bumps are to be expected. Very good to see the offense arrive early and pick Darvish up. Too often the guys have struggled to score runs with Yu on the mound. Tonight the team kicks off a tough four game set at home against the Cleveland Indians. Cole Hamels takes the mound against the Tribe, who are one win behind the Rangers for the best record in the American League.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-75367798938081139132016-08-23T10:49:00.001-05:002016-08-23T10:49:39.544-05:001980 Topps - Eric Soderholm.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZdxqX8yZNkPJCKFH6S01JCCEEue8Jb-FnUfLxUS63XqQsz1u5f4UXnqdsijQV3TWRzEXMVAO9xxwepKKMp8tJBgQdwGiZIIALFSuffsAqjCLWqeE6qezIVdiE0ED9t_JgQ6gQvNLODY/s1600/1980+Topps+%2523441.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZdxqX8yZNkPJCKFH6S01JCCEEue8Jb-FnUfLxUS63XqQsz1u5f4UXnqdsijQV3TWRzEXMVAO9xxwepKKMp8tJBgQdwGiZIIALFSuffsAqjCLWqeE6qezIVdiE0ED9t_JgQ6gQvNLODY/s320/1980+Topps+%2523441.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div>
By the time Eric Soderholm appeared on card #441 of the 1980 Topps set, he was no longer wearing a Rangers uniform. Texas picked up the veteran third baseman from the White Sox on June 15, 1979 in exchange for Ed Farmer and Gary Holle.<br />
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Soderholm played in 63 games for the Rangers. Texas picked him up to help fill in for ailing third baseman <a href="http://rangerscards.blogspot.com/2015/12/1980-topps-buddy-bell.html">Buddy Bell</a> as Bell struggled through his injury-plagued season. All told Eric would appear in 37 games at third base, 14 games as the designated hitter, and two games at first base for the Rangers. He was serviceable but below the league average at both third and first.<br />
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In his 166 plate appearances Soderholm walked 12 times and struck out nine times en route to a .272 batting average and a .325 on-base percentage. He scored 15 runs and knocked in 19 RBI. He also hit six doubles and four home runs.<br />
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On November 14, 1979 the Rangers traded Eric to the Yankees for Amos Lewis and Ricky Burdette. Neither one of those players would ever make it to the Majors. Soderholm would play through the end of the 1980 season as a backup with the Yankees and see some some action in the American League Championship Series as New York fell to the Royals. Eric would miss the entire 1981 season before the Yanks released him on October 13, 1981.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-60595052443788021622016-08-20T11:03:00.000-05:002016-08-20T11:03:45.375-05:00Back on the Road Again.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iCaxPA-5m-uXb77khRtzZxx0Y2RVCjm4OewrVJJVL5Fxw29cW_LJGIPuoatdSxKcJUG6lmSx2iTlYIwY31c3mFG0fUXL8M4B_HjTDUFHCENADDl28xUI6PFBHmbHDOm3qMh2RrtQlmg/s1600/2015+Topps+Heritage+%2523446.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iCaxPA-5m-uXb77khRtzZxx0Y2RVCjm4OewrVJJVL5Fxw29cW_LJGIPuoatdSxKcJUG6lmSx2iTlYIwY31c3mFG0fUXL8M4B_HjTDUFHCENADDl28xUI6PFBHmbHDOm3qMh2RrtQlmg/s320/2015+Topps+Heritage+%2523446.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div>
Well, recently my family's trusty minivan finally gave up the ghost as the transmission failed. With the 13 year old van at a little over 180,000 miles, it was time for a replacement rather than a repair. It took some looking around, comparing, and shopping but we now have a new (to us) van and are back on the road.<br />
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The Rangers are also back on the road, kicking off another road trip last night in Tampa. Texas sent Cole Hamels to the mound while the Rays countered with Matt Andriese. Hamels put on an outstanding performance, chasing a no-hitter through five innings before losing it in the sixth. He had to settle for three hits in 7.1 innings while striking out ten and allowing just one run. A gem. Unfortunately, I have no Rangers cards of Cole Hamels, otherwise he would have been the card of the day today.<br />
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Tony Barnette relieved Hamels in the seventh but had problems and lasted just a third of an inning while allowing one run. Jake Diekman finished the game off, keeping Tampa Bay off the board for an inning and a third.<br />
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While all that was going on the offense was not silent. Well, at least after the fourth inning they weren't. With the score at 0-0 heading into the fifth, the Rangers were looking for a little offense to back Hamels on the mound. Mitch Moreland led off the inning with a solo home run to break the tie. Ian Desmond followed up with a single that scored Elvis Andrus from first to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead.<br />
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In the sixth inning the wheels really came off for the Rays pitching. Adrian Beltre, shown here on card 446 of the 2015 Topps Heritage set, hammered a long ball to lead off the inning. The Rangers reset the table for Nomar Mazara and he shot a single to right field to score Jonathan Lucroy. Jurickson Profar ended the scoring by walking with the bases loaded to force in Moreland. All told the Rangers sent nine men to the plate during the inning.<br />
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Adrian Beltre capped off the scoring for Texas for the night when he led off the seventh inning with another home run. It was his second of the night and the third inning in a row the Rangers led off with a home run. Final score: Texas - 6, Tampa Bay - 2.<br />
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The Rangers got some good stuff going last night. Hamels was dominant and it was nice to see the bullpen get a bit of a break. Also very good to see the offense show up and back Hamels. If the team can keep the bats going they should be able to have a pretty good trip.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-8467713613100612862016-08-09T11:44:00.002-05:002016-08-09T11:44:56.961-05:00Better late than never.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozORynz1fMaa6xh-Ipw1B6w1pTZU4c6YMd1rvhIHbuQsNPOxnBMEjmpVFbIyEl4Ea-y6xpoRNB1dmVlsjVzYhW8Wkaav14ZNRmfKkpdXkAwTeiaOKZXd8ZXM7cL-T3KJgKy5T0vK8jVE/s1600/2007+Bowman+Gold+%2523BDPP86.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozORynz1fMaa6xh-Ipw1B6w1pTZU4c6YMd1rvhIHbuQsNPOxnBMEjmpVFbIyEl4Ea-y6xpoRNB1dmVlsjVzYhW8Wkaav14ZNRmfKkpdXkAwTeiaOKZXd8ZXM7cL-T3KJgKy5T0vK8jVE/s320/2007+Bowman+Gold+%2523BDPP86.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div>
Going into the ninth inning last night in Denver, the Rangers were trailing the Rockies 3-1. Texas starter Cole Hamels gave up two runs in six innings and Keone Kela allowed Colorado to add a run in the eighth. Meanwhile, the Rangers lone tally came on an Adrian Beltre homer in the seventh.<br />
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The Rockies brought in their closer, Carlos Estevez, to pitch the ninth and send the Rockies faithful home happy. The Rangers had other plans. Adrian Beltre singled to lead off the inning. Rougned Odor hit into a fielder's choice that resulted in Beltre being out at second. Jurickson Profar walked to move Odor to second. That brought Elvis Andrus, shown here on card BDPP86 of the 2007 Bowman Draft Picks and Prospects Gold set, to the plate with runners on first and second.<br />
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Elvis faked a bunt while Profar and Odor pulled off a double steal. That re-set the table with runners at second and third. Andrus shot a single to center. Odor scored easily and Profar turned on the afterburners to add a second run. Just like that the game was tied with Elvis on first base. That was the end of Estevez. In came Boone Logan to try to keep the game tied. The first batter he faced was Mitch Moreland. Moreland hammered a screamer into the right field corner for a clean double. That scored Andrus from first and gave the Rangers a 4-3 lead. Mitch got thrown out trying to stretch the hit into a triple and Nomar Mazara struck out to end the inning but the damage was done.<br />
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In came Jake Diekman for the Rangers. A strikeout and a double play later Texas was celebrating a 4-3 victory. Waiting until the ninth inning and rallying against a closer is never a good option but a late rally is better than none at all.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-62694564756256864202016-08-08T10:30:00.000-05:002016-08-08T10:30:18.378-05:00Minor League Monday - Rob Maurer, 1991 Line Drive.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9TyRawhqiKIcpUXxuUrADHdNu1b_NAK5QZnxWFI8j-I4w6Ys2ocpXMtlwfntP8T1b9n4kKklxjnV7FWu8Yh8Z9zl5N71GVgqd4-AwBs8qxbYa3lq4gGsZMsXCYsXDEFPZjjHIn_qmh4/s1600/1991+Line+Drive+%2523312.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9TyRawhqiKIcpUXxuUrADHdNu1b_NAK5QZnxWFI8j-I4w6Ys2ocpXMtlwfntP8T1b9n4kKklxjnV7FWu8Yh8Z9zl5N71GVgqd4-AwBs8qxbYa3lq4gGsZMsXCYsXDEFPZjjHIn_qmh4/s320/1991+Line+Drive+%2523312.jpeg" width="222" /></a></div>
Realized it's also been awhile since I posted a minor league card. Decided to go ahead and get one up while I am thinking about it. Today we see Rob Maurer on card 312 of the 1991 Line Drive set. Following a pretty decent <a href="http://rangerscards.blogspot.com/2015/02/minor-league-monday-rob-maurer-1990.html">1990 </a>season with Double A Tulsa, Maurer got promoted to Triple A Oklahoma City to begin the 1991 season.<br />
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Rob appeared in 132 games for the 89ers in 1991, 120 of those games were as the team's first baseman. In spite of the infield designation on the front of his card, he played nowhere else other than first. Maurer's defensive issues continued as he made 16 errors in the course of the season to end with a .985 fielding percentage. That was a tic lower than the previous year.<br />
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Offense was another story however. Rob made 564 trips to the plate for OKC and put up a .301 batting average - almost identical to the year before. His on-base percentage jumped up to .420 though, in spite of his 135 strikeouts. Maurer did walk 96 times and that was an improvement over his time in Tulsa. Rob scored 76 runs while accounting for 77 RBI. He knocked 41 doubles, three triples, and 20 home runs.<br />
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Maurer's bat caught the attention of somebody in Arlington and when the rosters expanded in September, he got a call to join the Rangers. Rob made his Major League debut on September 8, 1991. He appeared in 13 games total for Texas in 1991. Two of those games were as the team's designated hitter, four other appearances were at first base. In the ten innings he played at first Maurer was flawless in the field. Once again, his offense was another story. Rob made 19 trips to the plate for Texas and struggled to a dismal .063 batting average. He did get his on-base percentage up to .211 but hit just one extra base hit - a double.<br />
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While Rob Maurer struggled in his limited time with the Rangers, he put up a solid season with the 89ers. Some stumbles are to be expected when a young player hits the Big Show and the Rangers weren't giving up on Maurer. He would again be assigned to Triple A for 1992.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-46780537159400816902016-08-06T10:00:00.000-05:002016-08-06T10:00:34.755-05:00Senators Saturday - Bernie Allen, 1967.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR0aVUg2-OanzvuSDP3qL-dmGvfJvzcQetI-9zMiizWtlEXvOrxb3WWIwCJR9z5Vq3XWoRia1aZ32SHcDvnhiYvCkmLb81Pt6xclPW7_g-C_Bs1wt-n8CatFbC9Z3vxpFkeQOjn5NeqTU/s1600/1967+Topps+%2523118.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR0aVUg2-OanzvuSDP3qL-dmGvfJvzcQetI-9zMiizWtlEXvOrxb3WWIwCJR9z5Vq3XWoRia1aZ32SHcDvnhiYvCkmLb81Pt6xclPW7_g-C_Bs1wt-n8CatFbC9Z3vxpFkeQOjn5NeqTU/s320/1967+Topps+%2523118.jpeg" width="220" /></a></div>
Have a brother getting married today so I am busy with that and you will have to settle for a pre-scheduled post. Of course, it's been a bit since the last Senators Saturday so maybe it's worked out for the best.<br />
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Be-freckled Bernie Allen appears on 1967 Topps card 118 in his Minnesota Twins pinstripes. He had played in the Twins organization since they signed him as an amateur in 1961. On December 3, 1966 the Twins sent Allen and pitcher Camilo Pascual to Washington in exchange for reliever Ron Kline.<br />
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Bernie jumped right into a competition with <a href="http://rangerscards.blogspot.com/2014/11/senators-saturday-bob-saverine-1967.html">Bob Saverine</a> for the starting second baseman's job. The two ended up platooning for most of the season but by the end of the year Allen appeared to have the upper hand.<br />
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Allen appeared in 87 games for the Senators in 1967. 75 of those appearances were at second base, the only position he played during the season. Over the course of 601.1 innings at second Bernie committed just four errors. That gave him a .990 fielding percentage, well above the league average .979 and completely blowing out Saverine's .957 fielding percentage.<br />
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Bernie made 279 trips to the plate for Washington. True to the Senator's luck with new players, his batting average dropped to .193 with his on-base percentage only getting up to .244. Indicative of the Senator's below-average offense, Allen scored just 13 runs and only picked up 18 RBI. He had a little power - five doubles, one triple, and three home runs; but also struck out more times than he walked (43/18).<br />
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1967 had been a mixed bag for Bernie Allen. His defense was outstanding but his bat appeared to have evaporated. With Washington being enamored of slick fielders and Bob Saverine struggling at the plate as well, Allen looked to have a pretty decent shot at second base in 1968. If he could get the lumber working again he might be able to nail down a starting gig for several years.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-11878689260305048312016-08-04T10:50:00.000-05:002016-08-04T10:50:00.058-05:00Another Random Auto.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJTziSimkNZAiwozJXyAl1RuNxix7PUDxi-ZaMq_DbOXX_SV0pnpweqycVu221EiCWyIQqTA3BVxKmXTHKXz1zpA4HireYJ25ND6aRP3eR0LIIVNEjc-MdE-OQH8dlWS354h-zWKFDe8/s1600/1982+Fleer+%2523324+-+ebay+auto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJTziSimkNZAiwozJXyAl1RuNxix7PUDxi-ZaMq_DbOXX_SV0pnpweqycVu221EiCWyIQqTA3BVxKmXTHKXz1zpA4HireYJ25ND6aRP3eR0LIIVNEjc-MdE-OQH8dlWS354h-zWKFDe8/s320/1982+Fleer+%2523324+-+ebay+auto.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
Since the Rangers lost again last night I decided to go with another random Rangers autograph from the autograph box.<br />
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Doc Medich appears today on a signed 1982 Fleer card that I picked up as part of a signed lot off Ebay. I think his expression fits the thoughts of most Rangers fans after the past couple of days losses in Baltimore.<br />
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Hopefully the boys can get their act together tonight. It would be a very bad thing to leave Baltimore without a single win. If they can't get things figured out, it will be a very long road trip.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-63207988185020105042016-08-01T11:03:00.002-05:002016-08-01T11:04:04.100-05:00Sweep!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLSuoiqc_nw6jfxInwvmCTpt2XGCpqpOohsIvwBd4lJ5D2m_klh_FPwnC4XsIZpKaOg_sPB1Iv6Kb8aZiRDVro7diUD84SwAtRYgmsCvsUwtVj190FXi__4I60d3Y2qVHoH2DizzQ1Hw/s1600/2011+Bowman+Gold+%252397.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLSuoiqc_nw6jfxInwvmCTpt2XGCpqpOohsIvwBd4lJ5D2m_klh_FPwnC4XsIZpKaOg_sPB1Iv6Kb8aZiRDVro7diUD84SwAtRYgmsCvsUwtVj190FXi__4I60d3Y2qVHoH2DizzQ1Hw/s320/2011+Bowman+Gold+%252397.jpeg" width="223" /></a></div>
Apparently the Rangers have found their mojo again. Their win yesterday completed a four game sweep of the defending champion Kansas City Royals. Very nice to see the boys back to playing like they were earlier in the season. Maybe the rough patch is in the past.<br />
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The Rangers pitching showed much improvement in the series as Cole Hamels and Nick Martinez turned in very impressive performances. Newly acquired starter Lucas Harrell got the nod yesterday. He did well but wasn't overpowering.<br />
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Of note, the offense showed up as well. Perhaps the most obvious was Mitch Moreland, shown here on card 97 of the 2011 Bowman Gold set. Mitch hammered four home runs during the sweep. Perhaps the most impressive was his walk-off shot in the bottom of the ninth on Saturday to give the Rangers a 2-1 win. Encouraging to see the offense pick up the pace. Very nice to see Moreland coming through in Prince Fielder's absence. Even nicer to see the division lead get up to five games as a result of the sweep.<br />
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The trading deadline hits in just a few hours. So far the Rangers have made just one move, the trade that landed Harrell and reliever Dario Alvarez from the Braves in exchange for minor league infielder Travis Demeritte. There are rumors swirling though. Some link Texas to Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy and others to an assortment of pitchers. I'm a little torn on the idea of any real big moves. Colby Lewis should be back from the disabled list this month and the rest of the rotation seems to be picking up the pace. I think the club might already have the guns it needs to get to the postseason and make a run. That brings up the idea of trading tomorrow for today. This is a young club and the Rangers have a pretty decent farm system. There's no reason not to try to extend the playoff window as far as possible into the future. If there are too many trades from the system, then the window gets narrower. That's the everlasting debate though and Jon Daniels has so far shown he has the ability to keep the balance.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-7194379019223110482016-07-28T10:44:00.003-05:002016-07-28T10:44:53.035-05:00Staying positive.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNRqpXbGi-O0dtDTqPeHvZvKBV_76YcrM1o0TX_NBYYMLpJnHYoK7xob93ogXZaeHYT19tFiXqmLjE8fZwoNGKM4tQ68Z4ltDH1H2UCZFirx-rq7sj6vOvEM8MKn4zdIggfMxUBQLMjs/s1600/2008+Allen+and+Ginter+Relics+%2523AGR-MY.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNRqpXbGi-O0dtDTqPeHvZvKBV_76YcrM1o0TX_NBYYMLpJnHYoK7xob93ogXZaeHYT19tFiXqmLjE8fZwoNGKM4tQ68Z4ltDH1H2UCZFirx-rq7sj6vOvEM8MKn4zdIggfMxUBQLMjs/s320/2008+Allen+and+Ginter+Relics+%2523AGR-MY.jpeg" width="222" /></a></div>
Another Rangers loss last night. An overworked bullpen coughed up the lead as Texas lost the series to Oakland.<br />
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In an effort to keep focused on the positive I am posting this 2008 Allen and Ginter game-used card of Michael Young today. As a note on the card, it is in excellent condition. What appears to be a crease on the right side is a scanner anomaly. Young is slated to be enshrined in the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame before the Saturday game. Many congratulations to Michael Young on this recognition of his fine career.<br />
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Hopefully by Saturday I will have a Rangers win to write about.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-88648236429422910482016-07-26T10:46:00.001-05:002016-07-26T10:46:44.473-05:00Beltre bombs A's.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The A's struck first last night as Danny Valencia hammered a two-run homer off Martin Perez in the first inning. Texas scored one in the bottom of the first on a solo shot by Ian Desmond but ended up trailing for most of the game. Indeed, the A's appeared to be firmly in the driver's seat for most of the contest.<br />
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Oakland scored three more runs off Perez in the top of the third to run his total to five runs given up over the six innings he pitched. Due to an errant throw by Elvis Andrus in the first, only three of those runs were earned.<br />
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Matt Bush came in to start the seventh inning with the Rangers down 5-4. Another fielding miscue, this one by Delino DeShields, allowed the A's to pick up an unearned insurance run. In the bottom of the inning, with the score 6-4 Oakland, Adrian Beltre squeezed in a solo homer down the right field foul line. Texas was unable to add any runs to that through the rest of the seventh and in the eighth inning. Fortunately, Matt Bush matched that and held the A's scoreless as well through the top of the eight. Jake Diekman blanked Oakland in the top of the ninth.<br />
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With one out in the bottom of the ninth Nomar Mazara blooped a broken bat single to right field. Ryan Rua came in to run for Maz. Oakland closer Ryan Madson got Desmond to strike out for the second out. That brought up Beltre, shown here on card 444 of the 2013 Topps Heritage set, with two in the mud. Beltre blasted the first pitch he saw over the center field fence for a two-run walk-off home run. Final: 7-6 Texas. It was the first Rangers walk-off in at least a month.<br />
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Awesome to see the team hang in there and battle back. Nice job by the bullpen to keep the game close and give the offense a chance to win it. Always great to see Beltre blast two homers in a game. The guys need to cut down on the defensive errors though. Beltre was right when he said in his post-game interview that the defense has been letting the pitchers down and making them work harder. Some better defense might help the pitching staff put things back together that much quicker.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-21883661107277566522016-07-25T17:09:00.001-05:002016-07-25T17:09:18.942-05:00Finding the long-lost W's in KC.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BKg31vst2gj2iL8UuXPL7Ol243YzJYScgp2ue8bAPIl1T54KAdBb-ECzx0KDXS5tSSKqFSsWGi9z1hckfV61esbQYnSnKu8ZlTKFBylDkY-bp9e2KhXpCIjE0lxbj6gwnRR7E8V_tLk/s1600/2014+Bowman+%2523136.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BKg31vst2gj2iL8UuXPL7Ol243YzJYScgp2ue8bAPIl1T54KAdBb-ECzx0KDXS5tSSKqFSsWGi9z1hckfV61esbQYnSnKu8ZlTKFBylDkY-bp9e2KhXpCIjE0lxbj6gwnRR7E8V_tLk/s320/2014+Bowman+%2523136.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div>
With Shin-Soo Choo and Prince Fielder, shown here on card 136 of the 2014 Bowman set, headed to the Disabled List late last week things looked kind of bleak for the Rangers. I figured the chances were slim of having a win to write about today. Instead the boys won two of three in Kansas City to snap their losing skid and take the series against the Royals. That's some very welcome good news for Rangers fans.<br />
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Cole Hamels won the game on Saturday to break the losing streak. Yesterday afternoon A.J. Griffin took the hill to try to get Texas a series win. Griffin lasted five innings and gave up one run. He didn't get a decision. As a matter of fact, when A.J. left the game he was on the hook for the loss.<br />
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In the top of the sixth Mitch Moreland singled in Adrian Beltre to tie up the game and get Griffin off the hook. Alex Claudio came in and worked a scoreless inning in relief. In the top of the seventh inning recent (re)call-up Delino DeShields Jr hammered a solo shot home run to lead off the inning and put the Rangers on top. With Keone Kela, Jake Diekman, and Sam Dyson each working a scoreless inning, that was all she wrote for Kansas City. Final: 2-1 Texas.<br />
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Couple of things were very heartening about yesterday's game. First and foremost, the pitching. Griffin didn't get as deep as one might like but he also only gave up one run. Four different relievers managed to keep the Royals off the board after that. That's the kind of thing we didn't see much of during the losing streak and it's the sort of performances that the club needs to get going again. Second positive was Delino DeShields. After struggling and getting sent down to Triple A early in the season, Delino had to wait his turn to be called back up to the big club. Now we get to see if his time in Round Rock benefited DeShields enough for him to keep his spot on the roster. Yesterday was a good sign from the young center fielder.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-11613891638246079722016-07-21T10:35:00.001-05:002016-07-21T10:35:13.332-05:00A Sample from the autograph box.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With the Rangers continuing their free-fall, Shin-Soo Choo returning to the Disabled List, and Prince Fielder out for the season (if not forever) with another herniated disc in his neck, there just isn't much positive to dwell on for Rangers fans right now. I am really hoping the guys can right the ship and get things back on track before they cough up the division lead to the surging Astros. Guess we just have to wait and see.<br />
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Since I don't have a lot to say about the current club I decided to get a random Rangers autograph to post again this week. Strangely, Billy Sample appears for the second time in two days. This time he shows up on a signed 1981 Topps card that I picked up as part of a lot of Rangers autographs on Ebay. Sample is a very good signer and I prefer to get autographs from the player when possible so I didn't buy the lot for Billy's autograph. Can't remember who was included that is a harder autograph. Hope you enjoy Sample and his powder blue uniform today and maybe soon I will have some Rangers wins to write about.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-79566384478385626182016-07-19T11:04:00.002-05:002016-07-19T11:04:44.751-05:001980 Topps - Billy Sample.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniwFCMnWeXyZpn6JXOF0XkcHGr0OQdP6Y1SNkiPC54qsV3-HIbwSu4iTJDZc2Jg65SDj0QsLNEBOFFQgGLVeK7gpIY8FW_oEupjCB67PbCPlQGlBDP-8xqsHHnSqBR20Z7yoQhxLRqmI/s1600/1980+Topps+%2523458.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniwFCMnWeXyZpn6JXOF0XkcHGr0OQdP6Y1SNkiPC54qsV3-HIbwSu4iTJDZc2Jg65SDj0QsLNEBOFFQgGLVeK7gpIY8FW_oEupjCB67PbCPlQGlBDP-8xqsHHnSqBR20Z7yoQhxLRqmI/s320/1980+Topps+%2523458.jpeg" width="222" /></a></div>
After the first couple of innings last night I thought I was going to have a win to talk about. However, since the pitching staff managed to blow the game it's a good time to continue with the 1980 team.<br />
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Outfielder Billy Sample appears today on card 458 of the 1980 Topps set. Sample was coming off a pretty impressive rookie season in <a href="http://rangerscards.blogspot.com/2015/11/1979-topps-rangers-prospects.html">1979</a> and the Rangers were hoping to see it continue in 1980. Unfortunately Billy started off the season with an 0-for-10 slump and didn't get his batting average above .200 until late July.<br />
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All told in 1980, Sample appeared in 99 games and made 234 trips to the plate. He managed to get his batting average up to .260 by season's end. He walked 18 times while striking out 15 times to move his on-base percentage to .335. Sample scored 29 runs while knocking in just 19 RBI. He did get ten doubles and four home runs but no triples.<br />
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Billy's bat probably helped move him into the fourth outfielder role. As the relief outfielder Sample played 257.1 innings in right field over 40 games; 140.2 innings in center field over 19 games; and 71 innings in left field over 16 games. He was flawless in right and left field and committed just two errors in center.<br />
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1980 was a let down season for Billy Sample. The Rangers still had high hopes for their young outfielder but he needed to show that 1980 was simply a sophomore slump. If he could get his bat going in 1981, Sample's defense would make help make him an attractive full-time option in the Texas outfield.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-82786231290962369432016-07-18T15:04:00.001-05:002016-07-18T15:04:30.929-05:00Why I was away.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErddeuS0KsI3KotehcxVlAMSBtO6GFZ8fvdGgpd_hbapZCJx-DzOnRxLsYFqM_4dp1iYjKIcViwtP1zneK1Cs8Jt4PwAvMur6NvR8P8JQXOTDZKCSeXM3CIID63YA_LCpobs0xJeGxb4/s1600/Ivan+Rodriguez+-+2001+SGA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiErddeuS0KsI3KotehcxVlAMSBtO6GFZ8fvdGgpd_hbapZCJx-DzOnRxLsYFqM_4dp1iYjKIcViwtP1zneK1Cs8Jt4PwAvMur6NvR8P8JQXOTDZKCSeXM3CIID63YA_LCpobs0xJeGxb4/s320/Ivan+Rodriguez+-+2001+SGA.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Well, it's been 11 days since I posted and I'm sure some of you are wondering if I fell off the face of the earth, or at least off the Rangers bandwagon. I suppose I owe you an explanation of my absence. I asked 2001 SGA bobblehead Pudge if I did and he shook his head yes so here goes.<br />
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On July 7th eleven police officers were gunned down in Dallas, Texas. Five of them died. A few days later a Missouri officer was ambushed and critically injured. Then an off-duty officer was forced to defend his family and home against a home invader. Yesterday four more officers were shot in Baton Rouge, Lousiana and two of them are dead. Frankly, those events have hit me hard. Very hard.<br />
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I try not to mention my profession to people I don't know well but, I am a law enforcement officer. I was stunned by the losses these past days and by the vitriol and hate displayed against police by our society. I knew things weren't good and I knew the President disliked us. For the President and others to figuratively stand on the graves of the fallen officers to scream their talking points was beyond angering. That's not up for debate. It was and is. You disagree, you do so elsewhere.<br />
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As I tried to shield my children from the news and watched other officers' children mourn for them, my motivation to write about the Rangers drained away. I needed some time to get my thoughts back together. That's where I've been. Thought you deserved to know and I appreciate you sticking around in spite of the lack of recent posts. I'm going to try to get back in the saddle and go back to talking about the Rangers and their cards. It's a manner of relaxation for me and a way to let the stress go a little. That and Pudge says I should get back to it.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-54410279838687165482016-07-07T10:51:00.000-05:002016-07-07T10:51:42.015-05:00Random autograph.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MQevfOYWnABPsGWuqoC5fcX3EXr7R6iMQdEFoQIWlSH8qliZpeTXPmPD-JwsgD3frth7MVwxZX0zQuQtnncDsdH-iLFWuqxOlk7FWe-80cK_A1i6DwbkqBJBY-L_1CB7W-DZbiEWBFw/s1600/2007+Bowman+Heritage+Signs+of+Greatness+%2523SG-JW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MQevfOYWnABPsGWuqoC5fcX3EXr7R6iMQdEFoQIWlSH8qliZpeTXPmPD-JwsgD3frth7MVwxZX0zQuQtnncDsdH-iLFWuqxOlk7FWe-80cK_A1i6DwbkqBJBY-L_1CB7W-DZbiEWBFw/s320/2007+Bowman+Heritage+Signs+of+Greatness+%2523SG-JW.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
Well, with little to say positive about the Rangers past few games, I decided it is probably better to say nothing at all. Instead I went with a totally random Rangers autographed card.<br />
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Looking at this 2007 Bowman Heritage Signs of Greatness card I had to ask the obvious question, why does Johnny Whittleman have an arm growing out of his neck? Not the most flattering photo Bowman could have used. The next question is, who is Johnny Whittleman? Whittleman was the Rangers second round draft pick in 2005 and played mostly third base with a few appearances at first thrown in.<br />
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Johnny did all right his first season at Rookie ball in 2005 but his batting average tanked below the Mendoza Line during winter ball in 2006. Texas kept him in the system though but Whittleman had trouble getting his average up over .250. He managed to do so a few times but couldn't sustain the success and never broke the .300 mark. He never got above Double A with Texas and left the franchise after the 2010 season.<br />
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Starting in 2011, Johnny spent two seasons in the Kansas City Royals system without making it above Triple A. There is no record of him past the 2012 season. I guess in spite of the signs, Whittleman was unable to deliver on the greatness.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-85013183578285571552016-07-05T11:17:00.000-05:002016-07-05T11:17:13.526-05:001980 Topps - Dave Roberts.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4uNeZubvJ6XPPEOh-X3vSh-2XYrecGUAVdcFcgZwvjpAjzjoCLGZWomO4zFeiUscHNu57jwv78jtHelQ1LhirfoPCunhdWFsTLtjXXdnitmz3gd467vEP4CfbmzOlTy2yKxKCOHUE4k/s1600/1980+Topps+%252393.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl4uNeZubvJ6XPPEOh-X3vSh-2XYrecGUAVdcFcgZwvjpAjzjoCLGZWomO4zFeiUscHNu57jwv78jtHelQ1LhirfoPCunhdWFsTLtjXXdnitmz3gd467vEP4CfbmzOlTy2yKxKCOHUE4k/s320/1980+Topps+%252393.jpeg" width="221" /></a></div>
Well, not much positive to say about the Rangers last three games. Hopefully the guys can shrug off the double thumpings at the hands of the Twins and Red Sox. Since there's not much to say there, I decided today would be a good time to take another look back at a past player.<br />
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Up today we have Dave Roberts appearing on card 93 of the 1980 Topps set. Roberts came to Texas from San Diego in the trade that also netted the Rangers Oscar Gamble. Dave remained with the club longer than Gamble and actually got a card showing him in a Rangers uniform.<br />
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As you might assume from the position notation on the front of Roberts' card, he served as a utility player for the Rangers in 1980. Throughout the course of the season he appeared in 37 games at third base. He played 264.1 innings there and committed five errors. That gave him a .930 fielding percentage as compared the the league average .951. Dave's second most frequent position played was shortstop, where he played 107.2 innings over 33 games. He muffed three plays there for a .951 fielding percentage. The league average totaled to .963. As noted on the front of Roberts' card, he also played catcher. Over the course of the 22 games he appeared in as a backstop Dave played 145.2 innings behind the plate. He committed three errors to give him a .973 fielding percentage, once again below the league average of .986. While ten base runners stole on him Roberts did catch eight would-be thieves. That gave him a 44% caught stealing rate - well over the league average 35%. If those three positions weren't enough, Dave also played right field for 25 innings over five games, eight innings at first base in four games, and eight innings at second base in four games. Those appearances were without a miscue. Additionally, Roberts served as the designated hitter in three games.<br />
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In the 101 games he appeared in, Dave made 251 trips to the plate and struck out 38 times while working 13 walks. He posted a .238 batting average and a .280 on-base percentage while scoring 27 runs and knocking in 30 RBI. Roberts had some power in his bat - he hit four doubles and ten home runs but managed no triples.<br />
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In spite of his less than stellar offensive skills, Dave Roberts was an asset to the Rangers in 1980. A true utility player, he provided coverage at six different positions and filled in at DH as well. That's really a jack of all trades and something that's rarely seen anymore.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-2799889320744385112016-06-30T10:34:00.000-05:002016-06-30T10:34:21.397-05:00Latest Autograph Return.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFemMT_wqWunYZ6dzFBYd2XHsUIbkkPOBfy8rFkFa_xqnm0eJJaI3SrHCCoeEKxFz4hV_W2klKeWoqWIp4f5f3Txq9M4UXDD3kt3LSZfuctcHBs8y_fvvHjgD5Oqsyr8-LzaiH4MnMvp0/s1600/1990+Topps+%2523412+-+TTM+auto.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFemMT_wqWunYZ6dzFBYd2XHsUIbkkPOBfy8rFkFa_xqnm0eJJaI3SrHCCoeEKxFz4hV_W2klKeWoqWIp4f5f3Txq9M4UXDD3kt3LSZfuctcHBs8y_fvvHjgD5Oqsyr8-LzaiH4MnMvp0/s320/1990+Topps+%2523412+-+TTM+auto.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div>
Well, thanks to a bullpen meltdown last night, the Rangers were unable to take advantage of an early lead and fell to the Yankees.<br />
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In order to counteract the bad vibes from the loss last night I will leave you with this signed 1990 Topps Jamie Moyer. I sent this card, and a 1989 Topps card, to Mr. Moyer on January 23rd of this year. He graciously signed and returned both. They arrived home on June 23rd. Both filled holes in team sets I am trying to get signed. Many thanks to Jamie Moyer for taking the time to sign for a fan.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-79900093700396566642016-06-28T11:03:00.001-05:002016-06-28T11:03:57.523-05:00Rainy Day Comeback.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6QLcnrmcQWQI_E2zqHTYcpXKTSqX4h0M4QrlN_PemVR_hFHZYSun52FMSh4CWsB3RBMrbdYZTKbD97MFPRkQ1J8_feTwKKHDLyvgloJlrmtZX5gqlxlvh5tnpwzQu2aURledeBPIGGs/s1600/2012+Topps+Archives+%252381.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6QLcnrmcQWQI_E2zqHTYcpXKTSqX4h0M4QrlN_PemVR_hFHZYSun52FMSh4CWsB3RBMrbdYZTKbD97MFPRkQ1J8_feTwKKHDLyvgloJlrmtZX5gqlxlvh5tnpwzQu2aURledeBPIGGs/s320/2012+Topps+Archives+%252381.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div>
I have to admit, I didn't stay up and listen to the end of the Rangers game last night as they played in New York.<br />
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I did listen to the beginning of the game, where Ian Desmond hit a first inning home run to give the Rangers an early lead. I listened as Chi-Chi Gonzalez took the hill for his season debut. He coughed up the lead in the second inning, allowing two Yankee runs. Chi-Chi ended up having a rough night, lasting just five innings and surrendering five runs. Luke Jackson came in in relief but also gave up a run in an inning and a third. Finally, Tony Barnette stopped the bleeding and worked and inning and two thirds of scoreless ball.<br />
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Meanwhile, Yanks hurler Ivan Nova wasn't exactly having a cakewalk. Desmond struck again in the third inning with a fielder's choice that scored Robinson Chirinos. In the top of the fourth Shin-Soo Choo singled in Prince Fielder and Elvis Andrus. Rougned Odor ended the scoring I heard with a solo shot home run in the eighth to bring the score to 6-5 in favor of the Yankees.<br />
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In the top of the ninth New York reliever Arnoldis Chapman walked Chirinos. Then the umpires delayed the game for rain. The delay lasted a little over three and a half hours. I didn't last that long and hit the sack before play resumed. When it did Kirby Yates came in to pitch for the Yanks. He was wild, hitting Desmond and Nomar Mazara to load the bases for Adrian Beltre. Beltre, seen here on card 81 of the 2012 Topps Archives set, laced a single to left field. The hit score Jurickson Profar (who was running for Chirinos) and Desmond. That gave the Rangers a 7-6 lead but they weren't done yet. Fielder got hit by a pitch to re-load the bases. Up came Andrus. He singled to right field to score Mazara and Beltre.<br />
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In came Sam Dyson for the bottom of the ninth and he shut the Yankees out for the final innings. Final score: 9-6 Texas.<br />
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Too bad Gonzalez had such a rough outing. It would be nice to see him step up and fill a hole in the rotation. On the other hand, the comeback was nice too. For the most part the bullpen held the line again and allowed the bats to pull the team back into the game. Coming out after a lengthy rain delay and putting up a four spot is also very impressive. A delay of that length when a team is losing can cause a loss of focus or a resignation to the defeat. Great feeling knowing these guys never give up.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-45763973862172219042016-06-23T13:10:00.001-05:002016-06-23T13:10:46.502-05:00Good news, Bad news.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZj6y4h9Br2bTli8vVqZJlBKVNl0tXR86oJa49dLHE1xq3Ywl6617uROYsJ-JsJyjHpIMWuGy0P0IYwFyQR0aqLyX0xfIJvKShgnoaVOg5FuUwM90lA3DhL4RC-jmw86gHytS4qdIhH8E/s1600/2002+Fleer+%2523510.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZj6y4h9Br2bTli8vVqZJlBKVNl0tXR86oJa49dLHE1xq3Ywl6617uROYsJ-JsJyjHpIMWuGy0P0IYwFyQR0aqLyX0xfIJvKShgnoaVOg5FuUwM90lA3DhL4RC-jmw86gHytS4qdIhH8E/s320/2002+Fleer+%2523510.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div>
Yesterday was a good news, bad news type of day for the Rangers.<br />
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On the good news side, Cole Hamels dominated the Reds en route to another Texas win. Hamels struck out eight over six innings while giving up just one run. Jake Diekman had an unusual outing and coughed up three runs but otherwise the bullpen was great once again.<br />
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The offense picked Diekman up with Ian Desmond and Shin-Soo Choo homering as the bats put up six runs. Final: Texas - 6, Cincy - 4. Since this was a two game series and the Reds took game one, I am not sure if this counts as a series win or loss. Either way a win is always good news.<br />
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On the bad news side of the ledger, Derek Holland and Colby Lewis joined Yu Darvish on the Disabled List. Anytime a club has three starters on the DL there is cause for concern. Dutch got put on the shelf with left shoulder inflammation. He is slated to be out at least two weeks but it could be longer. Hopefully in the mean time he can get things figured out. The team has recalled Luke Jackson from Triple A to fill the hole on the pitching staff.<br />
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Colby Lewis, shown here on a signed 2002 Fleer card, is an altogether different matter. Not only was Colby having a great year, he won't be back in action for at least two months. Lewis left his last start early and an exam revealed he had a strained lat muscle in his right shoulder. Having Colby down will definitely hurt the Rangers.<br />
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A.J. Griffin is due to make his return from the DL on Saturday and Nick Martinez and Martin Perez will have to step up with Lewis and Holland gone. Hopefully they can bridge the gap until Darvish returns from the DL. If they can then perhaps the club can avoid dealing some of their prospects for a starter to keep them in the race.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061800788985767182.post-13487261817434050352016-06-21T11:50:00.002-05:002016-06-21T11:50:44.874-05:00Choo keeps the train rolling.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEre6BYNdun8VDKx4AQcczzxSIUu6heESOl074JDnFqB76H3qMByx7mxulubS9UPeC3A45z1DMPwJMmg1hQEx1T10V8M7mquhb6q4tWg7eOFJcBRQnSfdxGcx3h8q_uDFc6SDsBKzs8k/s1600/2014+Topps+Texas+Rangers+%2523TEX-13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEre6BYNdun8VDKx4AQcczzxSIUu6heESOl074JDnFqB76H3qMByx7mxulubS9UPeC3A45z1DMPwJMmg1hQEx1T10V8M7mquhb6q4tWg7eOFJcBRQnSfdxGcx3h8q_uDFc6SDsBKzs8k/s320/2014+Topps+Texas+Rangers+%2523TEX-13.jpeg" width="226" /></a></div>
Once again, Derek Holland didn't last long enough to get a decision last night against Baltimore. Dutch went just 4.1 innings and allowed three runs before being yanked. That performance was enough to leave the Rangers behind 3-1 going into the bottom of the fourth. Fortunately Shawn Tolleson, Tony Barnette, and Sam Dyson kept the Birds off the board for the rest of the game.<br />
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In the bottom of the fourth Texas rallied. Prince Fielder scored on a Bobby Wilson sacrifice fly to bring the score to 3-2 O's. That brought up Shin-Soo Choo, shown here on card TEX-13 of the 2014 Topps Texas Rangers team set. Choo shot a single to right that scored Elvis Andrus and Mitch Moreland. That put Texas up 4-3 and that was the final score.<br />
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This game was a makeup from a rain out in April so it counted as a series of its own. The Rangers win gives them ten straight series wins.<br />
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On the upside, the bullpen has been unbelievable recently. After some struggles early, the relief core has been lights out and is directly responsible for several of the wins on the recent road trip as well as last night. Also good to see the offense working. Seems a different guy comes through every day and that's key. Depth and versatility is what is keeping this team rolling. Very exciting to see their come from behind ability.<br />
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Of course there is always a shadow. In this instance it's Derek Holland. Dutch needs to get whatever it is wrong figured out and fixed. The wheels have really come off the wagon for him this year. Fortunately for the team, the rest of the rotation has picked things up. That won't make much difference for Holland when the front office patience runs out. Judging by how fast he's been pulled his past two appearances, he's now on a very short leash. That likely puts him on a short list as well and he could be looking at the bullpen or being designated for assignment if he can't pull things together.Spiffhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15614196449493651457noreply@blogger.com0