Nathan Eovaldi earns his 100th career win as the Rangers beat the Angels 6-3 on July 31. See how Eovaldi's masterful start saved Texas from a series sweep.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when it looked like the Rangers were headed for a frustrating sweep in Anaheim, Nathan Eovaldi strapped the team to his back and delivered a performance for the ages. On a night celebrating his 100th career victory, Eovaldi was simply masterful, shutting down the Angels and guiding Texas to a much-needed 6-3 win that felt like more than just a single notch in the standings.
Corey Seager extended his MLB-best on-base streak to 29 consecutive games with a ninth-inning single.
The man of the hour was undoubtedly Nathan Eovaldi. Needing a vintage performance, he gave the Rangers exactly that, carving through the Angels' lineup for seven brilliant innings. He scattered six hits and allowed just one run while striking out four, showcasing the bulldog mentality that has defined his career. Reaching the 100-win milestone is a testament to his longevity and grit, and to do it in a game the team desperately needed to win makes it all the more special. It was a stopper's performance from a veteran leader.
While Eovaldi held the line, the offense did just enough to capitalize. Marcus Semien was a catalyst at the top, going 3-for-5 with two runs scored, while rookie Wyatt Langford continued his solid campaign with a 2-for-5 night, including a double. The Rangers took advantage of some sloppy Angels defense, but the knockout blow came from the bat of Adolis 'El Bombi' García. His towering two-run homer in the eighth inning, his 15th of the season, broke the game open and gave the bullpen the breathing room it needed to close out the victory.
Quietly, almost like clockwork, Corey Seager just keeps getting on base. With a single in the ninth inning, the Rangers' superstar shortstop extended his on-base streak to 29 straight games—the longest active streak in all of Major League Baseball. It's a remarkable display of consistency and a reminder that even when he isn't hitting for power, Seager is always a threat and a vital part of the team's offensive engine. His presence ensures the lineup never truly gets a break.
This was a huge character win for the Rangers, salvaging the series finale and building a bit of positive momentum. Now, they'll need every ounce of it as they head north for a massive four-game series against the division-rival Seattle Mariners. With Jack Leiter (7-6, 4.09 ERA) getting the ball on Friday, the stage is set for a pivotal weekend that could have major implications for the AL West standings.
