The Texas Rangers took game one of a three-game set against the San Diego Padres last night. It took a five-run bottom of the 6th inning to overcome an early deficit, but Texas won the game 7-4. The bullpen continued its dominance, pitching four innings of shut out ball. The stoppers last night included Tony Barnette, Jose Leclerc, Chris Martin and Keone Kela.
The bullpen has been phenomenal, as has the top of the Rangers batting order during their run of eight victories in their last nine games. With that said, a man towards the bottom of the order deserves some credit:
One Big Takeaway from Last Night’s Win
Robinson Chirinos has stepped up ever since his position was infiltrated
Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Texas’ well-known utility infielder, made his first every big league start at catcher last Wednesday.