The previous article discussed the analysis of both teams before the series, their pitching, hitting, and defensive performances. This article will cover the situation in each game and provide a summary.

(5) Game 1 Tactical Analysis

Game Highlights (YT MLB)

Team	Rangers	Orioles
Score	3	2
Hits	8	5
Home Runs	1	1
Total Bases	14	9
Stolen Bases	0	0
Left on Base	10	5
Errors	0	0
Batting Average	0.229	0.172
Hits/At Bats	8-35	5-29
Struck Out	16	7
Walks	5	5
Runners in Scoring Position	3-8	0-4

(Game Commentary & Tactical Analysis)

In this game, both starting pitchers performed well in the first three innings. However, from the fourth inning, Kyle Bradish, after striking out the first batter, Robbie Grossman, was hit consecutively, allowing multiple different types of pitches (curveball, slider, splitter) to get hit. This indicated that the Rangers’ hitters were starting to pick up on his pitches.

For the Rangers’ starting pitcher Andrew Heaney, he managed to hold the Orioles to just one hit through the first three innings. However, in the fourth inning, after giving a walk to Santander and a double to Mountcastle, which scored the Orioles’ first run, the Rangers chose to pull Heaney after he got through Henderson.

Heaney’s performance was solid, inducing five groundouts and managing his pitches well until signs of trouble appeared in the fourth inning, which led to his early exit.

Bradish’s performance was decent as he pitched 4.2 innings with 9 strikeouts and allowed only 2 earned runs, even though he faced a crisis with the bases loaded in the fourth inning.

In the sixth inning, the Rangers’ Josh Jung hit a home run, and Anthony Santander responded with a homer for the Orioles, keeping the game close until the later innings.

The Orioles had significant scoring opportunities in the 8th and 9th innings, but failed to capitalize, notably due to a failed steal attempt by Gunnar Henderson, which significantly hurt their chances.

(6) Game 2 Tactical Analysis

Game Highlights (YT MLB)

Team	Rangers	Orioles
Score	11	8
Hits	11	14
Home Runs	1	2
Total Bases	16	25
Stolen Bases	0	0
Left on Base	10	9
Errors	1	0
Batting Average	0.297	0.341
Hits/At Bats	11-37	14-41
Struck Out	7	7
Walks	11	2
Runners in Scoring Position	5-17	3-13

(Game Commentary & Tactical Analysis)

This game was a high-scoring affair. The key for the Rangers’ victory was not just their ability to hit but also taking advantage of the numerous walks given up by Orioles pitchers. Mitch Garver’s grand slam was a critical moment in the game.

The Orioles started strong with Aaron Hicks driving in two runs in the first inning, but Rangers’ starter Jordan Montgomery struggled initially before being replaced by Cody Bradford, who pitched excellently in relief.

Bradford’s strong pitching helped stabilize the game for the Rangers, handling pressure well and keeping the Orioles’ hitters at bay during critical moments.

The Orioles made a late-game rally attempt but fell short as Rangers closer Jose Leclerc managed to close the game despite some difficulties.

(7) Game 3 Tactical Analysis

Game Highlights (YT MLB)

Team	Orioles	Rangers
Score	1	7
Hits	6	11
Home Runs	0	3
Total Bases	6	22
Stolen Bases	0	0
Left on Base	7	5
Errors	0	0
Batting Average	0.182	0.324
Hits/At Bats	6-33	11-34
Struck Out	9	5
Walks	2	2
Runners in Scoring Position	1-2	2-3

(Game Commentary & Tactical Analysis)

Facing elimination, the Orioles started Dean Kremer, who struggled significantly, allowing multiple hits and runs in just 1 2/3 innings. Nathan Eovaldi, on the other hand, dominated for the Rangers, pitching seven strong innings with excellent control and pitch velocity.

The Rangers’ powerful offense, highlighted by home runs, ensured a comfortable victory, advancing them to the ALCS.

(8) Summary

The Rangers exploited their advantages in hitting and took control early in the games, which neutralized the Orioles’ bullpen strength. The series highlighted the Orioles’ need for more playoff experience and potential adjustments for future postseasons. Meanwhile, the Rangers prepared for a challenging ALCS against the seasoned Houston Astros.

Sources:

• MLB Official Website
• Fangraphs
• Baseball Reference
• Baseball Savant
• Yahoo Sports