Texas Rangers grind out victory in Game 3, hold 2-1 series lead over Arizona Diamondbacks

The Texas Rangers faced some challenges and suffered injuries to key players on Monday, but they managed to secure a 3-1 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 3 of the World Series. This win puts the Rangers ahead with a 2-1 lead.

Texas Rangers at Arizona Diamondbacks, World Series Game 3: Rangers 3, D-backs 1 (Texas leads 2-1)

Game summary:

The three-time Cy Young winner, Max Scherzer, pitched three scoreless innings and worked out of a tough situation in the second inning. However, he experienced back tightness during warm-up for the fourth inning, resulting in Jon Gray taking over the mound.

Despite a strong start from rookie Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Pfaadt, the Rangers managed to score three runs in the third inning. Marcus Semien drove Nathaniel Lowe home with a two-out single, and Corey Seager hit a home run to extend the lead to 3-0.

Pfaadt only allowed those three runs in 5 1/3 innings pitched, but it was enough for the Rangers to secure the win.

The Rangers bullpen held the Diamondbacks scoreless until the eighth inning when Aroldis Chapman allowed a run. However, Chapman struck out Corbin Carroll and induced a double-play to end the inning.

Closer José Leclerc finished the game with a scoreless ninth inning.

The extent of Scherzer’s injury and the status of Adolis García remain unclear, which could significantly impact the Rangers moving forward.

Key moment:

Diamondbacks first baseman Christian Walker, who had been struggling at the plate, had an opportunity to break out of his slump in the second inning. He hit a leadoff double, and Tommy Pham set up a scoring chance with a line drive. However, miscommunication between Walker and the third-base coach resulted in a crucial out at home plate, squandering the opportunity for the Diamondbacks.

In the next inning, Corey Seager’s two-run home run further shifted the momentum in the Rangers’ favor, compounding the missed opportunity for Arizona.

Impact player:

Jon Gray stepped up when called upon in the fourth inning due to Scherzer’s injury. He pitched three innings, allowing only one hit, no walks, and no runs while striking out three. Gray’s performance was crucial in maintaining the Rangers’ lead and will be remembered as a standout moment in this World Series.

What’s next?

Game 4 is scheduled for 8:03 p.m. ET on Tuesday in Phoenix. The starting pitchers for this game have not been announced yet. The Rangers aim to extend their lead to 3-1 in the series, while the Diamondbacks will be striving to tie it up at 2-2.