The Texas Rangers made a statement in Game 2 of the ALCS by defeating the Houston Astros and taking a 2-0 series lead.
The game ended with a 5-4 win for the Rangers, bringing them just two wins away from reaching the World Series.
On the other hand, the defending champion Astros now face the possibility of elimination with just two losses away.
What makes this victory even more impressive is the fact that the Rangers achieved it on the road.
While the Rangers’ offense showed great strength early on in the game, it was their closer, Jose Leclerc, who stole the show and secured the win.
Leclerc has become a trusted arm for manager Bruce Bochy, despite the Rangers’ bullpen being considered the team’s weak link.
In Game 2, he threw 1.1 innings, securing his third save of the postseason. So far, Leclerc has maintained an exceptional 1.23 ERA this October.
Looking back at the regular season, Leclerc had a solid performance with an ERA of 2.68. He appeared in 57 games, striking out 67 batters. Throughout the season, he accumulated four saves, bringing his career total to 40 saves.
Leclerc’s performance in the ALCS has made him the first pitcher in postseason history to finish each of his team’s first seven games of a postseason.
Previously, the longest such streak was held by Kenley Jansen in 2017, who finished the first six games for his team.
José Leclerc is the first pitcher in postseason history to finish each of his team’s 1st 7 games of a postseason
prior longest such streak: 2017 Kenley Jansen, 1st 6 https://t.co/Iog4VVGTYw
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) October 17, 2023
As the series moves forward, Game 3 will take place at Globe Life Field on Wednesday.
Fans can expect an exciting matchup as both teams fight for a chance to advance to the next round. The first pitch is scheduled for 8:07 p.m. ET.
