Winning, made easy

Kason Gabbard: Proving that pitching is easy when batting helmets aren't thrown at you

It took the Texas Rangers 28 games to win their first 10 this season. Win No. 10 was achieved on the last day of April, the 30th.

Consequently, it only took them 13 games to win their next 10, No. 20 happening last night in a 5-2 win against Seattle. It makes the Rangers 20-21 (achingly close to .500) and they've won six straight series. They're 4 out in the AL West, who the Rangers are a cool 12-8 against this year. Too bad the Rangers can't play the Mariners every game.

Notes:
1. It was probably known beforehand, but the Eric Gagne trade is officially a success. Gagne's floundering in Milwaukee while Kason Gabbard looks good when healthy and David Murphy continues to hit. Hell, Engel Beltre's gravy.

2. Gerald Laird is playing really good baseball. He's hitting well, but also getting on base. Once a perceived automatic out earlier in the season, he's a threat to at least get on base. He had three runs last night.

3. Did Ron Washington pull Gabbard too early? It was the sixth inning, Gabbard was on 87 pitches, runners on second and third. Unless he's hurt ...

4. Why can't Josh Rupe throw a strike? Incredibly lucky those walks didn't screw the Rangers over.

5. Eddie Guardado is proving his worth. Versatile and a great veteran presence in the bullpen.

6. Encouraging to see the Rangers beat top-of-the-rotation starters. Gave Erik Bedard and Felix Hernandez in consecutive days.