Rookie Ryan Johnson carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning and three Angels pitchers combined on a one-hitter as Los Angeles blanked Texas 3-0 on Saturday night.
The Los Angeles Angels defeated the Texas Rangers 3-0 on Saturday night in Arlington, as rookie right-hander Ryan Johnson carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning for the second time this season and three Angels pitchers combined on a one-hitter. The win evened the three-game series at one game apiece, setting up Sunday’s rubber match.
Angels’ Pitching Dominates
Johnson was the story, weaving through the Rangers’ lineup with ease before his no-hit bid ended in the sixth. He was followed by two relievers who preserved the shutout, allowing just one hit total. The combined effort marked a season highlight for an Angels staff that has struggled at times, and it was the second time this season Johnson has taken a no-hitter into the sixth inning.
Rangers’ Offense Stalls
Texas managed just one hit all game, a stark contrast to Friday’s dramatic 10-inning win. The Rangers’ bats went cold against Johnson and the bullpen, and no Texas batter recorded multiple hits. The lone bright spot was the absence of further injury concerns: first baseman Jake Burger left after four innings with a left wrist contusion after being hit by a pitch in the third, but X-rays came back negative and he is listed as day-to-day.
Turning Point: Johnson’s Early Dominance
The game’s pivotal moment came early, as Johnson set down the first 18 batters he faced, carrying a perfect game into the sixth inning. The Rangers’ first baserunner came in the sixth, and while the no-hitter was broken up, the Angels’ lead was already secure. The Rangers never threatened to score, and the Angels’ three-run cushion proved more than enough.
Key Stats and Notes
- Angels rookie Ryan Johnson carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning, his second such outing this season.
- Three Angels pitchers combined on a one-hitter, allowing just one hit and no runs.
- Rangers first baseman Jake Burger exited after four innings with a left wrist contusion; X-rays were negative.
- The Angels placed 1B Nolan Schanuel (right intercostal strain) and OF Wade Meckler (concussion) on the injured list, retroactive to Friday.
- The Rangers were held to one hit, their lowest output of the season.
What It Means
The Angels improved to 52-78, still fourth in the AL West, but they showed they can spoil a contender’s plans. The Rangers fell to 64-66, remaining second in the division but seeing their wild-card hopes take a hit. With the series tied, Sunday’s rubber match carries extra weight for Texas, who need a win to avoid dropping two of three to a last-place club. The Angels, meanwhile, will look to build on the pitching momentum and secure a series win on the road.
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