By Noah Shelton @SheltonOKC

The Rangers served up another offensive dud Monday night in Arlington, losing 3-1 to that team from the Bronx. Coming off the sweep of the Astros, the Rangers are yet to win. The loss gives the Rangers its fourth straight.

Yankees’ pitcher Nathan Eovaldi had a no hitter brewing after 6 innings of work, and with the Rangers’ recent batting performances it seemed as if we were going to see the rare pitching feat accomplished. Just as the excitement was beginning to make its way around Globe Life Park Nomar Mazara shot a grounder through third base and shortstop, and the no-hitter bid was over in the seventh.

With Cole Hamels out with a groin injury, Cesar Ramos was called up from Triple-A Round Rock to start in his first major league game since May of 2014. The expectations going into Monday night did not involve a low scoring pitchers’ game, neither starter had recent success under their belts. Then, one inning into the game, each pitcher had retired the sides in just nine pitches.

Ramos worked his way through a bases loaded situation in the second, and it looked as if the Yankees’ struggles with runners in scoring position was going to continue Monday night. The Yankees found a way, however, from two solo homeruns and a RBI double from Mark Teixeira with a man on first.

Cesar Ramos’ performance was worthy of a win Monday night against the Yankees. It was impressive to see a high caliber performance from a guy who probably didn’t expect to be pitching against the Yankees on Monday going into the weekend. The Rangers have dipped into the reserves early this year and we are yet to see any disappointments.

“It’s amazing,” Andrus said when asked about the Rangers’ depth. “Having the depth is a huge help for us, and knowing we’re going to have guys to help us stay on top”

It looks as if the bullpen and offensive production have switched success rates. Just a week ago, the bullpen was looking shaky at times when trying to close out large leads. Now, the bullpen is pitching lights out, however, no run support is being given. Everything seems to be reversed lately. Ian Desmond went 3-4 on Sunday with a homerun which just adds to the craziness.

“We have faced a stretch of pitchers that match up fairly well against us.” Bannister said in reaction to the 3-1 loss to the Yankees. “I think that our offense is obviously a potent offense…I felt confident about the at-bats (tonight).”

The offense is struggling and the defense is flourishing. Once the Rangers’ performances align correctly, we should be in for a treat.

A Positive Moment in Monday Night’s Loss

Brett Nicholas hits the first homerun of his career off of one of the hardest relief pitchers in the league, Dellin Betances.