Late surge lifts Athletics
The Texas Rangers’ lead evaporated in the eighth inning as Jeff McNeil drove in two runs with a double, helping the Athletics secure an 8-3 victory on Saturday at Sutter Health Park. The win improves Oakland’s record to 48-74, while Texas falls to 60-63.
McNeil was the standout performer for the home team, recording four hits in five at-bats. His second hit of the game came in the eighth inning when he doubled to right field. The hit allowed Bolte to score and Heim to reach third base on an error by catcher Díaz, who also allowed Heim to advance to home plate.
McNeil’s double capped a three-run frame that turned the contest firmly in Oakland’s favor.
Early offense defines first half
The game began with significant scoring for Texas. In the top of the first inning, the Rangers loaded the bases and capitalized on an Athletics error. Cortes doubled to right field, driving in Gelof, Wilson, and Soderstrom to give Texas a 3-0 advantage. That lead held until the sixth inning.
In the bottom of the sixth, Texas responded with power. Burger homered to center field, measuring 428 feet, which scored Seager and Duran to tie the game at 3-3. McNeil then followed with a solo home run to right field (400 feet) to give Oakland its first lead of the game at 4-3.
The Athletics extended their advantage in the seventh inning when Butler homered to center field (411 feet), pushing the score to 5-3. Texas attempted to rally, but their efforts were thwarted by Oakland’s pitching staff.
