Derek Holland seemed to get the message that it was time to perform or be ready to be demoted to the bullpen or even Round Rock. After one of the worst appearances in his career – a four-hit, two-walk, five-run performance in which he didn’t survive the first inning – outsiders really started to speculate on who is most likely to replace Holland in the rotation. Thursday night was his night, however, as he took the eye of the tiger to the mound and shut out the A’s, allowing just four hits and two walks while striking out seven for his seventh win.
The offense chipped away at A’s starter Rich Harden for five runs in his five innings and another on the Oakland pen. Ian Kinsler led the way with two hits – which finally rose his batting average to .250 – and a walk. Endy Chavez added a pair of his of his own, and Michael Young homered and walked.
The Rangers and A’s will play game two of their four game set Friday with all-star lefties C.J. Wilson and Gio Gonzalez squaring off.