RHP Colby Lewis pitched 6 2/3 shutout innings Wednesday but got a no-decision. The Rangers’ starter has pitched into the sixth in all six games and pitched at least six complete in five of those games. RHP Yu Darvish had the short start at 5 2/3 innings. Lewis’ performance, combined with RHP Alexi Ogando finishing off the seventh, gave the Rangers 23 consecutive scoreless innings against Seattle before the Mariners rallied in the last two innings.
RHP Joe Nathan is the leading active reliever in terms of converting save chances when pitching without a day of rest. However, in both of the Rangers’ losses this season, the opponent has scored the winning run in the ninth inning off Nathan. Both times, Nathan was pitching for the second day in a row.
2B Ian Kinsler officially signed his five-year, $75 million contract on Wednesday. Kinsler will receive $13 million in 2013, $16 million in 2014-15, $14 million in 2016 and $11 million in 2017. If the Rangers pick up his option for 2018, he will be paid an additional $10 million, taking the total value to $80 million. If the club passes on the option, Kinsler will receive a $5 million buyout.
C Mike Napoli was hit in the ear flap by a pitch in the seventh inning Tuesday, but he finished the game. He wasn’t in the starting lineup Wednesday, but manager Ron Washington said that was merely because it was Yorvit Torrealba’s turn to play.
C Mike Napoli, who was hit in the helmet by a Blake Beavan pitch Tuesday, was out of the lineup Wednesday against Seattle. While Napoli acknowledged having a sore left side of the head, he experienced no headaches or dizziness and passed all concussion protocols. Manager Ron Washington said the off day was scheduled.
SS Elvis Andrus has played 39 consecutive errorless games dating back to 2011. It is the longest streak of his career. Andrus has handled 166 chances flawlessly during that stretch.
