Wetteland Blows It as A’s Stop Rangers

Relief ace John Wetteland blew a save for the third time in four tries, giving up run-scoring hits to pinch-hitters Dave Magadan and Mark Bellhorn in the eighth inning as Oakland overcame a three-run deficit to defeat Texas, 7-5, Sunday night.

Wetteland, who relieved Xavier Hernandez in the eighth, has four blown saves in his last eight tries. He has one save since June 15 and has given up eight runs--six earned--in his last five games.

Carlos Reyes (3-0) relieved Steve Karsay in the top of the sixth inning and gave up one run and three hits for the win. Buddy Groom got the final out for his second save.

Texas starting pitcher Ken Hill took a 5-2 lead into the eighth, but was replaced after Matt Stairs led off with his 12th home run. Hernandez replaced Hill and struck out Mark McGwire, who earlier hit his 29th home run to tie for the major league lead.

But Hernandez (0-2) then gave up a double to Jose Canseco and an RBI single to Jason Giambi. After walking Scott Spiezio, Wetteland entered the game.

Magadan singled to score pinch-runner Damon Mashore. Bellhorn followed with a single to score Spiezio.

Magadan scored on a throwing error by shortstop Domingo Cedeno for the final margin.

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Next Series for Angels

WHO: Colorado Rockies

WHERE: at Colorado

WHEN: Tonight: 6 p.m., Tuesday: noon