Young’s Blast Caps Wilson’s Shutout: Rangers 6 Rays 0

C.J. Wilson proved he is in the right role Thursday. His two-hit shutout performance in Game 2 gives the Rangers a 2-0 lead in the best-of-5 series and places them one win away from the ALCS as the series moves to Arlington.

The Rangers are doing something that seems to be a mighty struggle for the Rays: scoring runs. The Rangers have held the Rays to one run through the first two games. The team’s quick-strike offense and top-notch pitching has completely left the Rays shaking their heads. Take it from Cal Ripken, Jr., who is serving as an analyst for TBS.

“But I still would give credit too where credit is due: The pitching staff has shut them down.”

- Cal Ripken, Jr.

While the Rangers have watched exceptional pitching the past two days, the hitting has also put the Rangers in situations where they can relax. On Thursday, the put-away hit came on a three-run homer from Michael Young on a 3-2 pitch from Chad Qualls in a four-run fifth. The Rangers sent their entire order batted in the fifth. Joe Maddon was ejected after arguing a check swing call on the previous pitch. Young also singled in the seventh.

Although Matt Treanor didn’t have a hit, he was on base three times with two HBP’s and a walk. The first HBP led to a run scoring. In the third, Treanor advanced to second on a groundout and to third on an infield hit by Elvis Andrus. The fear of Andrus’s speed drew numerous throws from Rays starter James Shields, one of which escaped the first baseman and allowed Treanor to score.

Vladimir Guerrero also crossed the plate in the fifth on a single by Kinsler after he hit it out in the third.

Game 3 on Saturday is Colby Lewis (12-13, 3.72) vs. Matt Garza (15-10, 3.91).