Mariners Continue Ranger Domination

The Seattle Mariners blew a five-run lead in the top of the ninth inning, before Russ Davis’ single in the bottom half gave them an 8-7 victory over the Texas Rangers on Friday night.

Davis singled off shortstop Domingo Cedeno’s glove and into center field for his fourth RBI as Seattle beat Texas for the sixth consecutive game.

The Rangers also lost All-Star catcher Ivan Rodriguez because of a mild sprain of his right ankle in the second inning.

Loser Xavier Hernandez (0-3) walked Dan Wilson with one out in the bottom of the ninth, and Rich Amaral pinch-ran. Paul Sorrento then singled to move Amaral to second, and Davis brought him home with the winner.

In eight-plus innings, Jeff Fassero gave up five runs and nine hits and one walk, striking out eight. Norm Charlton gave up a run-scoring single to Cedeno in the ninth before Bobby Ayala walked Mark McLemore with the bases loaded.

Despite having two inherited runners score, Ayala (6-2) got the final three outs in the top of the ninth for the win. After striking out Henry Mercedes, Ayala gave up a two-run single to Rusty Greer that tied the score, but got Juan Gonzalez to hit into a double play.

Davis and Wilson hit two-run homers and rookie Jose Cruz Jr. added a solo shot.