Angels See Rodriguez’s Milestone

Alex Rodriguez might have downplayed his latest accomplishment, but Texas Ranger Manager Jerry Narron was very impressed.

Rodriguez hit his 48th home run Sunday, breaking Ernie Banks’ major league record for most in a season by a shortstop and lifting the Rangers to a 5-2 victory over the Angels.

“He’s having the best season of any shortstop in the history of the game,” Narron said.

“Not just by a shortstop, but by any player. He won’t be voted most valuable player, but I don’t think there’s any player that’s done more for his team.”

The Angels are in no position to argue.

Texas’ victory completed the Rangers’ first home sweep of Anaheim since 1991, and their first at the Ballpark in Arlington.

“I’ve seen a lot of great shortstops,” Angel Manager Mike Scioscia said. “Some guys can play tremendous defense, and some are talented offensive players. I would say none are the complete package the way Alex is.”

Rodriguez connected on the first pitch by Ramon Ortiz (12-10) in the third inning, just clearing the wall in right-center. Rodriguez tied Cleveland’s Jim Thome for the American League lead with his 403-foot shot.

Rodriguez deflected praise to teammates, including Rafael Palmeiro, Ivan Rodriguez and Frank Catalanotto.

“I’m very grateful for the great protection I have,” Rodriguez said. “Hitting in front of guys like Palmeiro, and with guys like, Pudge, Ruben Sierra, Frank and Michael Young .... It’s made it a lot easier for me. It’s more of a team accomplishment.”

The home run also tied a franchise record for home runs in a season, matching Frank Howard’s total in 1969 with the Washington Senators.

“Congratulations to A-Rod,” Banks said through a statement. “I knew you could do it. You are a great man, an impressive baseball player, and a role model. I love the game of baseball, and I love to see players with heart and drive like yours who continue the spirit of the game.”

Rodriguez is three for 16 against Ortiz this season, two of which are home runs.

Rodriguez said he doesn’t know if he’ll see Banks on the Rangers’ upcoming West Coast swing, but he knows what to do when he does catch up with Banks.

“I’ll give him a hug,” Rodriguez said. “I’ll just tell him it was a fun ride, but now I’ve caught him. But I’ve got a long way to go to catch up to Mr. Banks’ beautiful career.”

Ortiz, relieved by Lou Pote in the fourth inning, gave up eight hits and five runs.

Rick Helling (12-9) went six innings, giving up six hits and one earned run before being relieved by Danny Kolb.

Jeff Zimmerman pitched the ninth for his 26th save in 29 chances.

Palmeiro followed Rodriguez’s homer with a home run of his own.

That was the 16th time this season the Rangers have hit consecutive homers.

Catalanotto added a run-scoring single in the fifth and Ricky Ledee stole home later in the inning on the back end of a double steal.