The Texas Rangers didn't start off their road series against the rival New York Yankees the way they wanted to on Monday night. In Ryan Dempster's third start with the team, they lost 8-2 at Yankee Stadium..
Dempster didn't get much support, with both of Texas' runs coming early in the game: Nelson Cruz hit an RBI-single in the first and David Murphy hit a solo shot in the second. That was it.
The Rangers' lead was erased in the third inning after Nick Swisher hit a grand slam. Curtis Granderson added a sac fly before the inning was over, then the Yankees extended their lead late. Eric Chavez had a solo shot in the sixth and, in the seventh, Derek Jeter hit an RBI-double and Swisher scored Jeter on a single.
Dempster gave up nine hits and eight runs in six innings of work. He is now 1-1 as a Ranger.
David Phelps (3-3) got the win for New York. He gave up six hits and two runs in five innings. Derek Lowe relieved him and picked up his first save as a Yankee.
Game 2 is Tuesday at 7:05 p.m. ET in New York.
For more on the Rangers, head over to Lone Star Ball. For the Yankees perspective, check out Pinstripe Alley.