That was the most enjoyable game of the year so far. The Rangers were up, then down, then up, then down, then up. 

The found a closer, at least for one game. 

Josh Jung went deep for his first home run of the year. Josh Smith got a huge hit. Joc Pederson contributed in a big way. Ezequiel Duran had a huge RBI. 

Guys who have been struggling all year came through at the plate when it really mattered. And it mattered most in the ninth inning, after the Rangers blew a 5-3 lead by giving the Athletics three runs in the bottom of the eighth. 

Down 6-5 in the top of the ninth, Burger and Jung led off with singles. An throwing error from Athletics pitcher Justin Sterner trying to nail Burger at third after a bunt allowed Jake to score the tying run. Pederson singled in the seventh run. After an intentional walk to Smith to load the bases and set up a force play, Duran singled in two more. 

The Rangers scored four in the top of the ninth, took a 9-6 lead that newly called up Cal Quantrill saved in the bottom of the ninth. 

The Rangers leave Sacramento with a split. Now they go to Seattle, where nobody can hit. Then home where it’s even harder to find offense. At least they unleashed some offense while they had the chance.

Let’s hope this jumpstarts some guys who really needed it.

*****