Evan Carter emerged as a standout performer for the Rangers, contributing an RBI double, two walks, and a run scored. Carter, a 21-year-old outfielder, continued his postseason excellence, reaching base safely in 10 of his last 12 plate appearances, which has significantly contributed to Texas’s perfect playoff record thus far.
On the Orioles’ side, Anthony Santander was a notable force, registering a homer, single, walk, and scoring twice. Despite Santander’s strong performance, Baltimore couldn’t secure the opening victory.
Andrew Heaney started on the mound for the Rangers, allowing just one run on two hits in 3 2/3 innings. Dane Dunning (1-0) took over and yielded one run in two innings. Jose Leclerc handled the ninth inning, securing the save, although Gunnar Henderson’s single opened the inning before he was caught stealing.
Kyle Bradish (0-1) started for the Orioles and gave up two runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings while recording nine of Baltimore’s 16 strikeouts. The game experienced a rain delay of 73 minutes at its outset.
The Rangers took the lead in the fourth inning when Adolis Garcia and Evan Carter delivered back-to-back doubles with one out, putting Texas ahead 1-0. Jonah Heim then followed with a line drive single, extending the lead to 2-0. Despite loading the bases with two outs, Baltimore’s Bradish managed to strike out Marcus Semien to limit the damage.
The Orioles responded in the bottom of the fourth when Anthony Santander walked and scored on Ryan Mountcastle‘s double into the left-field corner. Despite Aaron Hicks drawing a walk and pinch-hitter Adam Frazier making an appearance, Baltimore couldn’t capitalize further.
In the sixth inning, with one out, the Rangers extended their lead to 3-1 when right-hander Jacob Webb faced Josh Jung, who promptly homered to center field on a 1-1 fastball.
Santander showcased his power again in the sixth inning, homering to right-center with one out, closing the gap to 3-2.
Despite some late-game opportunities for the Orioles, the Rangers’ bullpen and defense held firm, securing the critical Game 1 victory.
(With Reuters inputs)
