W: Scott Feldman (4-6)
L: Manny Parra (1-4)
S: Chris Ray (1) - first save since 2007
HR: Josh Hamilton (14)
MVP: Joe Inglett (+.102)
LVP: Prince Fielder (-.291)
Win Probability Graph
SB Nation Coverage
Another inning, another runner left on base. That was the story for the Brewers offense early tonight as multiple rallies fizzled. Whether it was an ill-timed double play, a chopper back to the pitcher, or a baserunning mistake, the Brewers could bring only one of their five leadoff baserunners around to score. Rangers starter Scott Feldman pitched in and out of jams en route to six scoreless innings, striking out six along the way. Darren Oliver, one of only two active players who appeared in the last Rangers-Brewers series in Milwaukee, pitched a scoreless seventh. The Brewers finally plated a run in the eighth on Ryan Braun's double off Frank Francisco.
The Brewers rallied once again in the ninth. Neftali Feliz melted down after Jonathan Lucroy singled with one out. Alcides Escobar and Joe Inglett walked, loading the bases for Rickie Weeks. Weeks, who had already doubled twice, singled in one run to trim the lead to 4-2 and knock Feliz out of the game. Former Orioles closer Chris Ray entered to clean up the mess. Corey Hart brought in another run on a fielder's choice, leaving runners on the corners for Prince Fielder. Fielder ran the count full before flying out to Josh Hamilton, ending the game. Ninth inning dramatics that fall just short are fast becoming a Brewers specialty.
On the bright side, Lucroy had the best game of his young career, singling three times and stealing the first stolen base of his career. Braun had two hits to nudge his batting average back above .300.
It was a shame Manny Parra could not get any offensive support as he turned in his second straight solid start, allowing three runs in six innings while striking out eight. Three hits, a wild pitch, and a walk brought in two runs in the first but Parra settled down to keep the Rangers scoreless until Josh Hamilton's solo home run in the sixth inning. David Riske pitched a scoreless seventh in his second appearance of the season. Chris Capuano, also making his second appearance of the season, extended his streak of appearances in team losses to 24 by pitching the eighth inning. He did not do himself any favors in that regard, allowing one run on two hits. That run ultimately was the difference in the game. Trevor Hoffman entered the ninth inning on the losing side of a save situation, loaded the bases with one out, and induced two pop-ups to get out of the inning, lowering his season ERA under 10.00 in the process.