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Langford’s Homer Lifts Rangers Past Athletics

Texas Rangers shortstop Langford hit a two-run home run in the sixth inning to give Texas a lead they would not relinquish as they defeated Oakland 5-3 on Sunday.

Reese Stroud

August 16, 20262 min read

Baseball Comeback - illustration, Jake Team LLC
Baseball Comeback - illustration, Jake Team LLC
MLBFinal
Texas Rangers5
Athletics3

August 16, 2026

Turning Point

The Texas Rangers overcame an early deficit when Langford delivered a decisive blow in the sixth inning, propelling his team to a 5-3 victory over the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. The win marked the end of a four-game losing streak for Texas, who improved their record to 61-63.

The game began with Oakland seizing control in the second inning. Bolte launched a home run to left field, measuring 341 feet, which drove in Serven and Williams. Although the umpire’s initial call on the field was overturned upon review, the three runs stood, giving the Athletics a 3-0 advantage that seemed insurmountable.

Rangers Rally

Texas began chipping away at the lead in the fifth inning. Lopez singled to center field, allowing Burger to score and cut the deficit to 3-1. The momentum shifted further in the sixth when Seager followed with a single to center, scoring Nimmo to make it 3-2.

The pivotal moment arrived shortly after. Langford hit a home run to left center, traveling 421 feet, which scored Seager and provided Texas with its first lead of the game at 4-3. The Rangers extended their advantage in the ninth inning when Kelenic singled to center, bringing Carter home for a 5-3 final margin.

Pitching Performance

MacKenzie Gore earned the win for Texas, pitching 5.2 innings and allowing three earned runs on eight hits while striking out five batters. He was supported by Chase Silseth, who pitched 0.1 scoreless innings, and Jakob Junis, who contributed a perfect 1.0 inning of relief. Jacob Latz secured the save with two innings of work, allowing one walk and recording two strikeouts.

For Oakland, J.T. Ginn took the loss after pitching six innings, giving up four earned runs on eight hits but striking out seven. Brady Basso pitched 1.2 scoreless innings with two strikeouts. Scott Blewett allowed one earned run in 1.1 innings, surrendering two hits and one walk.

Final Notes

The game drew an attendance of 10,070 spectators to Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, California. The Athletics’ record fell to 48-75 following the defeat. Both teams continue their respective seasons with these updated standings.

Sources

https://www.espn.com/mlb/game/_/gameId/401816546

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Reese Stroud

Reese Stroud covers Denison high school and area college sports.

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