Stars Come Out in Ranger Win

The Texas Rangers honored the Stanley Cup champion Dallas Stars before Wednesday’s game against the Oakland Athletics and then went out and ended their longest losing streak of the season with a 7-6 victory.

Star captain Derian Hatcher carried the Stanley Cup onto the field, where he received a standing ovation. The Stars and Rangers are owned by Dallas businessman Tom Hicks.

Perennial all-star catcher Ivan Rodriguez had three hits and two RBIs as the the American League West-leading Rangers ended their losing streak at four games.

Ben Grieve hit his seventh and eighth homers for Oakland, which has lost 16 of its last 21 road games. It was Grieve’s second multihomer game, both in his home town.

Oakland Manager Art Howe’s contract has been extended through the 2000 season. Howe had signed a one-year contract extension with an option for a second season on Oct. 7, 1998.