World Series Game 3 Recap

The buzz surrounding the first two games of the Series revolved around the big time starting pitchers. Tim Lincecum. Cliff Lee. Matt Cain. And rightfully so.

But the highlight of Game 3 reminded us that clutch hitting is also a key ingredient for postseason success. Not only was Mitch Moreland’s three run blast in the bottom of the 2nd inning a clutch hit that ended up being the game winner, but it was a timely break through that may have swung the momentum back in favor of the Rangers as they attempt to get back even in the Series. And if that is not enough to fulfill your definition of clutch hitting, consider that this was the left handed batting Moreland’s first home run off of a lefty pitcher. Unfortunately for Giants pitcher Jonathan Sanchez, the home run also capped off what has been back to back shaky starts for him.

Sanchez’s teammates countered with a couple solo home runs of their own, including Cody Ross’ 5th of the playoffs, in an effort to get Sanchez off the hook. Rangers starting pitcher Colby Lewis provided another quality outing, and combined with his bullpen, kept the Giants from getting any closer. Rookie closer sensation Neftali Feliz sealed the victory by lighting up the radar gun with 97+ mph fastballs that had the final three Giants hitters shaking their heads and the sold out home crowd at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington bobbing theirs up and down in celebration.