How about the Texas Rangers?

2-1 vs the Rays

Are they a better team this year?

Yeah, I think that they are. The line up is better defensively, and I think it's a better hitting lineup with Napoli and Beltre. The starting pitching is as good or better than it was before the Lee trade. Bull pen is a push to slightly weaker. But the guys that are left have a year more under their belt. So I'd say that they're a tad better and a bit more seasoned. I thought today's game was very impressive, save and except the bobbles by the middle relievers. I was particularly impressed with Michael Gonzales three pitch appearance and dismissal of Johnny Damon.

They're doing all the right things and going to the big show last year is a huge part of it. And the pitching may have a little something to do with it too..... A few years back, that rally that TB was putting on last night in the 7th would have rattled the Rangers. Now, they just take care of business.

That double-play to close out the Rays last night was a thing of beauty. Looking forward to today's game. Go Rangers!

And they're in! Beltre goes all-world and knocks 3 out of the park.

Just checked prices for ALCS Game 3 (only crappy seats left for Games 1 and 2). About $180 for 20 rows behind home plate. Hmmm....to hobby for an hour, or have $7 hot dogs delivered to your primo Rangers seat for 3 hours. What to do, what to do.....