Despite generating only four hits of their own, the Texas Rangers were able to defeat the New York Yankees by a 5-3 final score on Friday, in large part because they turned an astonishing six double plays.
Rangers Vs. Yankees: Texas Turns Six Double Plays In Tight Road Victory
The Rangers did all their damage at the plate in the first five innings against Yankees starter Ivan Nova, who allowed just four hits but also walked five and drilled one. Michael Young hit an RBI double and later an RBI single to chase Nova from the game. Nelson Cruz drove in the fifth run by drawing a bases-loaded walk against reliever David Robertson.
But the real story was the Rangers' infield defense, or, if you prefer, the Yankees hitters' lousy timing. The Yankees put ten runners on base against Rangers starter Matt Harrison, but the top six hitters in the lineup all grounded into double plays, tying an American League record. The all-time record for double plays in a game is seven, set on May 4, 1969.
Curtis Granderson hit a solo homer in the eighth to narrow the score to 5-2, and the Yankees threatened in the ninth against Neftali Feliz, scoring a run and bringing the winning run to the plate. But with two on and two down, Russell Martin flew out to end it.
The series picks up on Saturday, with Derek Holland going opposite Freddy Garcia.
For more on the Rangers and Yankees, please check out team blogs Lone Star Ball and Pinstripe Alley.
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