Texas Rangers hold off Astros after Brice Matthews exits with knee injury

Texas Rangers held off Houston Astros 6-5 on July 12, 2026, as Brice Matthews exited with a left knee injury in the seventh inning.

What happened in the game?

Texas Rangers beat Houston Astros 6-5 at Globe Life Field on July 12, 2026. Brice Matthews, Houston’s left fielder, limped off the field in the seventh with a left knee issue. The Rangers’ bullpen held firm after his exit to secure the win. Rangers now sit 3rd in the American League with a 49-47 record and a W1 streak.

Why Brice Matthews’ exit matters

Matthews’ injury forced Houston Astros to adjust their lineup late in a tight game. The Rangers capitalized on the Astros’ bullpen shuffle to plate a run in the seventh. Rangers’ third-place standing in the AL keeps them in the playoff hunt. A win streak and strong bullpen work keep Texas in the mix.

How Texas Rangers sealed the win

Rangers scratched out a run in the seventh after Matthews left. Houston’s bullpen allowed the tying run to score before Texas broke it again. Rangers’ defense held firm in the late innings to protect the lead. The win extends Texas’ streak to one and keeps them just three games back of the division lead.

What’s next for both teams

Rangers look to keep the momentum going with a short break before their next series. Astros must regroup after losing Matthews for at least a few games. Both teams remain in tight races—Texas in the wild-card hunt, Houston chasing the division. The July 12 result adds pressure to Houston’s bullpen depth moving forward.