However, looking back, Bochy expressed satisfaction that Josh Smith, his No. 3 hitter and most reliable batter, took the initiative. 

Despite Wyatt Langford’s eighth-inning grand slam being the standout moment in the Texas Rangers’ 6-0 victory over Kansas City on Saturday, Smith’s sacrifice bunt earlier in the inning was crucial.

With Marcus Semien and Corey Seager already on base to start the eighth inning in a tight one-run game, Smith, who had already hit a home run and a single earlier in the game, surprised everyone by laying down a bunt along the third base line against left-handed side-armer Angel Zerpa. This strategic move advanced both runners, setting the stage for further offensive opportunities in the inning.

Josh Smith’s unexpected decision to deviate from the expected plan during the Rangers’ victory against the Royals was a pivotal moment that underscored both his strategic acumen and his commitment to team success. 

As the Rangers battled the Royals in a tightly contested game, Smith found himself in a critical position in the lineup, batting third—a role typically reserved for power hitting and driving in runs.

In retrospect, the decision to execute a sacrifice bunt, despite being the team’s most consistent batter and having already made significant offensive contributions earlier in the game, was a calculated risk. 

With Marcus Semien and Corey Seager on base at the start of the eighth inning, Smith chose to lay down a bunt against the left-handed side-armer Angel Zerpa. This surprising move not only advanced the runners into scoring position but also shifted the momentum in favor of the Rangers.