The Rangers weren't calling this a "big game" or huge win. They knew they would still be in first place regardless of what happened at the Ballpark in Arlington on Thursday afternoon.

But the Rangers did know going in that, after losing two straight to the Athletics, this would be a good game to win.

"Absolutely, no doubt about it," second baseman Ian Kinsler said. "They played well this series. They played well lately."

The Rangers did get the victory, and have now pushed themselves to the brink of a third straight trip to the playoffs. The American League West title is not far behind. Texas now has a four-game lead over the A's in the division.

The Rangers scored five runs in the first inning and didn't stop there, pounding their way to a 9-7 victory over the Athletics at the Ballpark in Arlington. Matt Harrison earned his 18th victory, tying Kenny Rogers for the most by a left-hander in club history.