On Saturday night, the Texas Rangers made an impressive comeback in the final two innings to defeat the Los Angeles Angels 9-8 in Anaheim. Jonathan Ornelas played a crucial role with a two-run single during the Rangers’ four-run ninth inning. Nathaniel Lowe also had a notable performance, hitting a home run among his three hits and finishing with three RBIs, including one from a bases-loaded walk in the ninth inning. Dane Dunning secured the win by pitching a scoreless inning, and Kirby Yates closed the game to earn his 33rd save.
Rookies Gustavo Campero and Niko Kavadas showcased their skills for the Angels, hitting back-to-back home runs. Logan O’Hoppe also contributed significantly with four hits, matching his career-high, and scored twice. Despite taking a commanding 7-1 lead after three innings, the Angels squandered their advantage and suffered their fifth consecutive loss. This defeat marked their 14th loss in the last 17 games, extending their franchise record for losses in a season to 98.
In the ninth inning, facing Angels’ left-hander Jose Quijada, the Rangers exploited their opportunity by loading the bases through walks and a hit batter. Lowe delivered his third run with another walk, narrowing the gap to 8-6. The Angels then turned to rookie right-hander Ryan Miller, who allowed Ornelas to hit a two-run single to right field, ultimately securing the go-ahead run as a result of an errant throw by Campero towards the infield.
Lowe’s 15th home run of the season in the second inning provided the Rangers with an early lead. However, the Angels quickly responded, taking a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the inning with key hits from Michael Stefanic, Taylor Ward, and Jack Lopez. The Angels extended their lead to 7-1 in the third inning with back-to-back home runs from Campero and Kavadas, marking the sixth occurrence of the Angels hitting consecutive homers in a game.
Amidst the rally, the Rangers gradually narrowed the gap, scoring runs in the fourth, sixth, and eighth innings. Adolis Garcia and Charlie Culberson contributed to the Rangers’ offensive efforts, helping them stay in contention before their late surge in the final two innings.
In terms of player updates, the Rangers placed RHP Josh Sborz on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder fatigue, with LHP Walter Pennington being called up from the minors as a replacement. Meanwhile, the Angels dealt with injuries to players like 1B Nolan Schanuel and SS Zach Neto, impacting their lineup decisions for the upcoming games.
Looking ahead, the Rangers have yet to decide on a starter for their next game, while the Angels are set to finalize their regular season with RHP Jack Kochanowicz on the mound for his 11th start since his MLB debut on July 11.