Rangers’ Bullpen Falters as Angels Take Series in Anaheim

By Oliver Wiener July 11, 2025 09:45

The Texas Rangers’ bullpen faltered late as the Los Angeles Angels clinched a hard-fought 11-8 victory on July 9, 2025, at Angel Stadium, securing the series win in Anaheim. Despite a strong offensive showing from the Rangers, including multiple home runs and timely hitting, late-inning struggles in relief pitching ultimately cost them the game and the series.

The Rangers jumped out to an early lead, scoring one run in the first inning and adding two more in the third and fourth innings. Marcus Semien and Corey Seager led the charge offensively, combining for multiple hits and RBIs that kept Texas ahead through much of the game. Semien went 4-for-5 on the night, while Seager contributed a two-run single during a seven-run third inning that put the Rangers in a commanding position.

However, the Angels mounted a furious comeback, beginning with a four-run third inning that erased the Rangers’ early advantage. Los Angeles continued to chip away, scoring consistently in the middle innings and taking the lead for good in the seventh. The Angels’ offense was led by Taylor Ward, who hit his 21st home run of the season, and Mike Trout, who delivered clutch hits throughout the contest.

The pivotal moment came in the late innings when the Rangers’ bullpen, which had been reliable for much of the season, faltered. Relievers Luke Jackson and others struggled to contain the Angels’ hitters, allowing multiple runs that swung momentum firmly in Los Angeles’ favor. Jackson was charged with the loss, dropping to 2-5 on the season, while Angels reliever José Fermín earned the win.

Rangers manager expressed frustration with the bullpen’s performance but praised the team’s overall effort. “Our guys battled hard all night,” he said. “We had opportunities to put this game away early, but the bullpen just couldn’t hold the lead. We’ll learn from this and move forward.”

Despite the loss, the Rangers’ offense remained a bright spot. Adolis García launched his 11th home run of the season, a two-run shot in the eighth inning, giving Texas a late spark. The team finished with 10 hits and eight runs, showcasing their ability to generate offense even against tough pitching.

The Angels improved to 45-47 with the win, while the Rangers fell to 43-45, highlighting the tight competition in the American League West. The series win was a morale boost for Los Angeles, who have struggled with consistency this season.

Looking ahead, the Rangers rebounded the next night with an 11-4 rout of the Angels, powered by Semien and Seager’s continued offensive dominance. Starting pitcher Patrick Corbin delivered a solid outing, helping Texas even the series at two games apiece.

In summary, the Rangers’ bullpen struggles in the July 9 game proved costly as the Angels rallied to take the series in Anaheim. While Texas’ offense showed promise, late-inning pitching woes underscored the challenges the team faces as they vie for a playoff spot. Both teams will look to regroup as the season progresses, with the Rangers aiming to tighten their bullpen and maintain their offensive momentum.