Rangers are re-writing their MO

ARLINGTON, Texas - The Texas Rangers are quickly altering how they've been viewed their entire existence. They're not just bashing, they're getting timely hits. They're not just cobbling together a pitching staff, they've got a rotation filled with solid starters. And defense is emphasized.

And after two impressive road victories in the Division Series against Tampa Bay, the Rangers are on the cusp of winning a postseason series for the first time in the 50-season history of the franchise.

"All year we've tried to play baseball according to the way it's been presented to us, which means you have to win all different ways," fourth-year manager Ron Washington said Friday. "But I think as we move forward and things continue to fall into place, I think people will start changing their minds and their perceptions of the Rangers."

The AL West champs play their first home playoff game in 11 years Saturday needing only one more victory to clinch the best-of-five series.

"We had some different guys have big moments in those [Game 1 and 2 wins]," said Michael Young, a six-time All-Star and the longest-tenured Ranger in his 10th season. "The common theme was pitching. If we keep pitching well, we're going to find a way to win games."

Lefthanders Cliff Lee and C.J. Wilson won the first two games, limiting the Rays to one run. Rangers righty Colby Lewis (12-13) starts Game 3 against Matt Garza (15-10).