The Texas Rangers' offense came alive late but fell just short in a 6-5 loss to the Oakland Athletics, a result that leaves both teams with identical 9-9 records early in the season.

Despite plating five runs, the Rangers' bats were quiet for much of the contest, managing only five hits total. The scoring was powered by two big swings: a two-run homer from Corey Seager in the 3rd inning and a clutch three-run blast from Jake Burger in the 8th.

Oakland built its lead with timely hitting, capitalizing on a tough start from Rangers pitcher Kumar Rocker with a couple of two-out RBI hits. The game shifted decisively in the middle innings when Shea Langeliers—a familiar thorn in Texas' side—crushed a two-run homer in the 6th to break a 2-2 tie. Jacob Wilson added another two-run shot an inning later.

Both of those damaging home runs were surrendered by reliever Cole Winn, whose outing proved costly. The 6-2 cushion provided just enough breathing room for the A's to withstand Burger's late rally.

While the bullpen's struggles were pivotal, the game's defining issue was the Rangers' offensive drought. The team mustered just one hit through the first five innings, leaving too much work for the final frames.

A bright spot in the loss was the major league debut of Gavin Collyer. The reliever needed only three pitches to notch his first career strikeout, a memorable moment in an otherwise frustrating night.

The Rangers will look to secure a series split in Thursday's afternoon finale. Right-hander Jack Leiter is scheduled to take the mound for Texas, facing the Athletics' lefty Jacob Lopez. First pitch from Sutter Health Park is set for 2:05 PM CDT.