Derek Holland wasn't dominant, but at least he hangs around for awhile. After the Rangers bullpen works 12 innings in a weekend series they are only needed for 2.1 innings Monday night in an 8-5 win over the Orioles.
Holland gives up five runs, three of them earned, in 6.2 innings. Ross Wolf comes on with two out in the 7th and needs just one pitch to retire the potential tying run.
Joakim Soria makes his return from Tommy John surgery on Sunday and Monday night he throws for a second straight game, needing only 16 pitches for a scoreless 8th. Then Joe Nathan earns his major league leading 30th save.
The Texas offense breaks out with six runs in the 6th, highlighted by a bases-loaded, bases-clearing double from Ian Kinsler.
The Rangers staying a half game behind the A's for the AL West lead. Martin Perez starts game two in Baltimore tonight.