Yu Darvish wins his 6th game of the season allowing just 1 run vs A’s

ARLINGTON, Texas — Expectations for Yu Darvish were every bit as big as the contract he signed to move from his native Japan.  He continues to meet and perhaps even exceed them.  Darvish pitched 7 2/3 strong innings, and Adrian Beltre had a two-run homer to help the Texas Rangers beat the Oakland Athletics 4-1 on Wednesday night.

“He was very efficient and made them swing the bat,” Texas manager Ron Washington said. “Broke his cutter out tonight and moved his fastball around the zone.”

Going into Wednesday’s game, Yu Darvish and catcher Yorvit Torrealba talked about using his fastball as an out pitch. It worked and Darvish went deep into the ballgame.  Darvish (6-1) gave up one run and four hits while striking out seven to win his sixth game in seven decisions and give a weary Rangers bullpen a rest.

After giving up a run in the first, Darvish settled down and retired 11 of the last 15 batters he faced. He lowered his ERA to 2.60. The Rangers committed more than $107 million to acquire Darvish.

via Oakland Athletics vs. Texas Rangers – Recap – May 16, 2012 – ESPN.