Rangers use a 6-run 5th inning to beat Diamondbacks 6-2, stay in AL playoff race

Phoenix (AP) — In a pivotal game, the Texas Rangers secured a 6-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks, evening up the three-game series. The Rangers' momentum surged in the fifth inning when Ezequiel Duran's two-run single and Wyatt Langford's solo homer sparked a six-run explosion. This inning-changing performance helped the Rangers maintain their position in the AL playoff race, currently 73-76, just two games behind the final wild card.

Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks, at 79-70, trail 1 1/2 games behind the San Diego Padres in the NL wild card chase. A crucial replay ruling in favor of the Rangers, initially missing the call, set the stage for their scoring surge. Despite Brandon Pfaadt's 6.2 innings of work, allowing six runs on 10 hits, the Rangers capitalized on their advantage.

Kumar Rocker pitched four solid innings, giving up only one run on two hits and two walks. Rookie Nathan Eovaldi returned from the injured list, making his first relief appearance since 2019, while the Diamondbacks will rely on Eduardo Rodriguez for their next outing.