Proud.

Just like Ivan Rodriguez's final hit as a Ranger (the first time around at least), an opposite-field double that he rocketed to right center field, Michael Young's franchise record-tying and record-breaking hits were extremely fitting: a similar double to right center, pure opposite field genius befitting of both the Rangers' new all-time hit leader and the man who, on that list, he has displaced, followed by a single shot up the middle that plated two runs, instrumental in a victory, the most appropriate part of all of this. Young said after the 27th out that he's happy the record-breaking hit came in such a big spot in the game, so he wouldn't have to think about anything other than trying to push another couple runs across. (Which made me think of something I'd written four years ago: http://newberg.mlblogs.com/archives/2006/09/the_newberg_rep_8.html.) And of course, nobody doubts the sincerity of his comment, or his final words to Nolan Ryan during the live TV interview that just finished: "Proud to be a Ranger." Sorry to interrupt without having much to say. I'm proud that guy's a Ranger. =========================================================== To join the free Newberg Report mailing list so you can get e-mail deliveries of every edition of the newsletter, daily minor league game recaps, and frequent Newberg Report News Flashes, go to www.newbergreport.com and click the "Mailing List" link on the top menu bar. (c) Jamey Newberg http://www.newbergreport.com Twitter @newbergreport