After Derek Holland left in the sixth inning, having allowed the A's back in to a 5-3 game, the Rangers' bullpen shut down Oakland the rest of the way to square the series up. Over the last three and two-thirds innings, Texas relievers allowed just two hits and two walks against six strikeouts.
The most dangerous situation came in the seventh when Alexi Ogando let a walk and single turn in to runners on second and third with no outs following a wild pitch. He struck out Brandon Inge to get out of the situation, though, finishing off a strike out of the side.
Mike Adams and Joe Nathan each worked fairly-efficient innings of their own, with Nathan getting his 12th save.
Texas added an insurance run when Ian Kinsler singled, stole second, and scored on an Elvis Andrus double in the ninth. Every Texas Ranger had a hit, with Kinsler -- including a double -- and Adrian Beltre leading the way with two a piece. Every Texas Ranger also struck out at least once.
There are two health concerns to watch over the coming hours. First, Derek Holland had another sub-par start -- both in peripherals and velocity -- and his teammates seemed to be expressing concern over his condition in the dugout after his removal. Anthony Andro noted he was not seen in the dugout after, and it could be illness. Second, Craig Gentry twisted his wrist awkwardly on a questionable steal attempt of third base in the ninth.
With the win, the Rangers move 32-23 with a +69 run differential, both still league bests. They maintain a four game lead on the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.