SAN DIEGO (AP) — David Murphy hit a two-run single in the first inning, Matt Harrison won his fifth straight decision and the Texas Rangers beat the San Diego Padres 2-1 on Monday night for their fourth straight victory.
Harrison (9-3) tied CC Sabathia and Ivan Nova of the New York Yankees for the AL lead in victories. He allowed one run and six hits in six innings, struck out four and walked two.
Rangers slugger Josh Hamilton didn’t start but played left field as a defensive replacement in the ninth inning. Hamilton was released from a hospital Saturday after becoming dehydrated because of an intestinal virus. Manager Ron Washington said he expects Hamilton to start Tuesday night.
Joe Nathan pitched the ninth for his 14th save in 15 chances.
Jason Marquis (1-2) allowed two runs and five hits in seven innings, struck out 10 and walked three.
