Cubs Hold On: Cubs 5 Rangers 4

With one run already in and the score 5-4 Cubs, Josh Hamilton came to the plate in the seventh inning with the bases loaded and the chance to alter the outcome of the game.

But the Cubs brought in lefty Sean Marshall to face him, and Hamilton rocketed the ball right to second base for the out. A would have given the Rangers the lead and a possible series victory.

Despite not coming all the way back, the Rangers did turn into a close game, a situation where the team has thrived this season. The team pulled within one at 4-3 and 5-4 after starter C.J. Wilson gave up four runs in the first inning. Wilson had surrendered just two 0-2 base hits all year before watching three men reach on that count to begin Sunday afternoon. The biggest hit was an Alfonso Soriano 3-run homer.

With a renewed focus, Wilson saved the bullpen from a long day and only gave up one run on two hits the rest of his 5 2/3-inning outing. When the bullpen trio of Chris Ray, Francisco and Neftali Feliz did take over the mound, they pitched a no-hitter. Feliz was likely just pitching to stay fresh because in a weird schedule quirk, the Rangers have three scheduled off-days over the next week.

Michael Young remains in a hot streak with a 2-run homer and a double Sunday. His career hit total is now 1,720 – 27 away from all-time Rangers leader Pudge Rodriguez. I’m not sure how to react to that prospect, but I guess I need to start thinking about it. I love both players, and they both have made excellent contributions to Rangers history.

Note: Carlos Silva is the first Cubs pitcher to start 6-0 since Dizzy Dean.