CHICAGO -- You have to love “man from nowhere" stories. It’s pretty much what author Bernard Malamud did when he created Roy Hobbs. Texas Rangers rookie Austin Bibens-Dirkx may not be a pitching version of “The Natural,” but his story has its fantastical elements nevertheless.
Bibens-Dirkx, a 32-year-old rookie righty from, well, everywhere, was far from dominating during Texas’ 8-7 loss to the Chicago White Sox on Friday. He gave up three homers, struck out just two batters and exited with one out in the sixth. Yet he should have ended up with his fourth win in the only four big-league decisions he’s ever had.