ARLINGTON, TX — The Rangers’ playoff hopes officially ended Monday night after a 4-1 loss to the Twins — their eighth straight defeat, the longest skid of their season.
Joc Pederson’s leadoff home run was the lone spark for Texas, who didn’t record another hit the rest of the night. The offense has averaged just 2.8 runs per game during the slide.
Patrick Corbin allowed two runs in 3.2 innings and took the loss. Texas is now 2-6 when he fails to complete five innings.
Minnesota rookie Zebby Matthews settled in after Pederson’s homer, striking out six over seven strong frames. Ryan Jeffers, Byron Buxton, Kody Clemens, and Austin Martin all drove in runs for the Twins, who’ve now won two straight.
Texas dropped to 0-8 since their last win and will try to avoid the sweep Tuesday night.
