Errors Doom Rangers Against Jays

Yeah, yeah. I know we haven't scored enough the last two games to win either, but the shaky defense has got to drop morale and therefore the bats. Padilla was cruising until Cat couldn't hang in to the deep lined hit over his shoulder. Difficult play. Maybe, but one that could spark some momentum rather than rattle a pitcher that struggles to control the marbles he has left. Funny how I never see criticism of Frankie C taking at-bats and playing time away from the youngsters. What's he doing on this team?

Saturday night seemed like the same as other close losses. Mendoza took a little time to settle down in the first but ended up getting out of the first frame with only one runner crossing. It wasn't until three consecutive ball rolled through the left side of the infield that the game was decided. Only Hank's mistake counted as an error but Young could have snagged the ball up the middle and has to knock down his second chance the save a run. People still going to blame the flu? It was a long time ago the Nomar, Jeter, A-rod, and a fielder like Young could be considered elite shortstops. Take a look around the league and tell me our "face of the franchise" is an elite shortstop. Borderline elite hitter these days and not with risp.

Last year I noticed numerous games where people remarked how pitchers threw games against the Rangers that they hadn't shown previous. This year there have been a few gems by a couple more no-names, and I bet there will be more. My reasons:

1. Confidence. They know their hitters will score a few against us.
2. Lack of patience by Ranger hitters. They can get Ranger hitters to swing early and often. Stat packing K totals for a few non-K hurlers.
3. Lack of the long ball threat. Sure Hamilton will poke a few, but I doubt there is too much fear for pitchers when facing Broussard, Bradley, or Hank.
4. Rangers don't run (or bunt, or hit the other way, or sacrifice...) So there are runners in scoring position, so what. We stink with risp.

I know what will keep the Blue Jays from sweeping us since the first time in over 20 years, Scott Feldman. And don't look now, but the only healthy lefty in the pen is "blueglovelefty." Might be a long time between Feldman and Wilson today. I tell you what, I'm going to Scarborough Faire and I'll check in on the boys later. Adios.

Rangers Creep Over .500

Congratulations Ron Washington. 1st time over .500 and the Rangers first time since September of 2006. We've missed you.

Is there anything that can propel a team and build confidence more than winning a double header? Seriously, I can't think of a topper. Even signing a player or trading for one could generate excitement, but the effect can be moot when play starts. Maybe a big comeback win, but that may only motivate the team when it's behind. Probably the one scenario that might compare is a series sweep against a front runner, but I bet the guys feel pretty good today going to work, and I hope we keep it going against the Jays.

Good luck, Guillermo, or whatever your name is today.