Surprise Day 18

> Rangers 9, Royals 8
Box / Recap / Star-Telegram / Morning News

Now this was a wacky game. I tuned in about halfway through and it was a total rollercoaster. The Rangers took an early lead, fell behind, stormed back to gain command, and then had to hold off a desperate rally late.

In the first few innings Rod Barajas carried the team. He homered and had two hits overall to go along with three RBI. Adam Eaton got the start and wasn't particularly sharp, permitting four hits and two runs. The only pitcher that had success was Erasmo Ramirez; everyone else struggled against Kansas City.

After the Rangers fell behind 5-3 they scored three runs in the top of the eighth to gain a 6-5 lead. The rally was keyed by a Travis Metcalf double that plated two runs. My favorite player, Jason Botts, added a three-run homer in the top of the ninth to give the Rangers what appeared to be a comfy 9-5 cushion.

Wes Littleton was then allowed to try to finish the game after retiring the Royals routinely in the eighth. But Littleton was wild and allowed the Royals to score a run and load the bases to cut the Texas lead to 9-6. Joselo Diaz came in and was able to finish off the game, but not before walking in two more runs for a narrow victory.

As for Erasmo Ramirez, he is out of options, which means that the Rangers must keep him on the team or else expose him to waivers. Ramirez won't be mistaken for Nolan Ryan, but his offspeed pitches frequently baffle opposing hitters. I think that he'll make the team, and if he does he can really help the Rangers in a variety of roles.

On Saturday the Rangers worked on defensive drills before their game, and it payed off against the Royals. Kansas City tried a delayed double steal and Adam Eaton was able to catch former Ranger Esteban German in a rundown.

> Monday, March 6, 2005
Texas Rangers @ Arizona Diamondbacks
2:05, Tucson Electric Park, no TV, no radio
Juan Dominguez (0-0, --- ERA) vs. Russ Ortiz (0-0, 4.50 ERA)