1973 Hall of Fame Game

The American League won its consecutive third Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 6, 1973, as the Texas Rangers beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 6-4.

With the win, the American League took a 18-12 advantage in the annual contests, played each year at Doubleday Field.

The Rangers took advantage of Pittsburgh starter Steve Blass’ wildness to score two runs in the top of the second inning to open scoring. Texas loaded the bases on three straight walks, then scored a run on a fielder’s choice and another on a wild pitch.

In the third frame, the Rangers added two runs to take a 4-0 lead, but the Pirates narrowed the lead to 4-2 on two solo shots in the fourth inning from Al Oliver and Richie Zisk.

Pittsburgh tied it at four in the bottom of the sixth inning when Zisk hit a two-run double to score Gene Clines and Dave Parker.

But the Rangers took the lead for good in the seventh inning on Larry Biittner’s two-run single.

Texas starter Lloyd Allen went the distance, scattering eight hits over nine innings and striking out five without walking a batter.

Blass lasted just two and one-third innings, giving up four runs on three hits and walking five batters.

Juan Jimenez relieved Blass and was tagged with the loss, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out three.