Is Tyler Alexander the Rangers closer?

He certainly played the role last night. With the Rangers having only a three-run lead, new manager Skip Schumaker made the decision to close with Alexander over Robert Garcia or Chris Martin.

Smart choice.

With a 5-2 lead in the ninth, and with the memory of Garcia’s and Martin’s debacle fresh in his mind, Schumaker called on Alexander in the ninth. He struck out Jeremiah Jackson. He coaxed a weak flay ball to center from Coby Mayo. Then struck out Ryan Mountcastle.

One, two, three. Like a save is supposed to happen. 

Rangers fans are used to three runs scoring in this situation, with bases loaded before getting out of it. 

With any luck, Alexander can do it again and again. And take over the role the Rangers are reluctant to fill.

The Rangers could use a closer. If they weren’t going to go buy one, it help to find one.

*****