CLEVELAND - On Sunday, the Rangers pitching staff very nearly blew a seven-run lead.
Those who didn't get into the act had but one thing to say Monday: "Hold my beer."
On Monday, the Rangers' pitching staff was supposed to take another step towards stability with the return of Cole Hamels from a 50-day DL stint. He was given a four-run lead before even taking the mound. What could go wrong?
Turns out: Everything.
Hamels had uncharacteristic command problems. The procession of bullpen arms that followed seemed to get worse with each change. The defense didn't make egregious mistakes, but couldn't maximize their opportunities to record outs.