(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

The Texas Rangers knew they could be here. But did they know they would be here?

After 89 games, the Rangers rest with a record of 48-39, 1.5 games back of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

To add to this feat, the Rangers have accomplished this while having 2008 wonder-boy Josh Hamilton miss 47 of those games due to injury. The pitching staff, which has a 4.34 ERA (more than a full run lower than 2008), has carried the team, while an inconsistent lineup toiled to find its groove at the plate.

With a fully healthy Josh Hamilton and continued competency from the pitching staff, the 2009 Texas Rangers have a chance to challenge the Angels in the second half.

But what good is conjecture? Here are my first-half grades for your Texas Rangers.

(Grades are not given to players with limited appearances)

Pitchers

Kevin Millwood (A)

Millwood has finally earned the title of “Ace.” 130 innings and eight wins show he has embraced Nolan Ryan’s pitching philosophy and led his team by example. A close second for team MVP.

Vicente Padilla (C+)

Padilla has experienced his share of highs and lows. Since being placed on waivers following a horrendous outing against the Yankees in June, the Nicaraguan right-hander has pitched five or more innings in each of his starts.

Scott Feldman (B)

The forgotten starter coming out of Spring Training, Feldman worked his way into the rotation behind an 8-2 record and 3.83 ERA. Improvements of his cutter and breaking ball have allowed him to flourish in Texas.

Derek Holland (C+)

Holland has performed like most rookie pitchers do: inconsistently. What sets him apart is his ability to forget poor outings and continue to take the ball. The baby-faced lefty has shown flashes of brilliance with his fastball and breaking pitch.

Dustin Nippert (D)

Nippert needs to extend his outings in order to keep a spot in the rotation. His command has been questionable.

Jason Jennings (B) 

Jennings has transitioned to the bullpen with ease. His history as a starter gives him a leg-up as the Rangers long-relief man.

Eddie Guardado (C)

The elder statesmen of the bullpen started a little shaky but has “rounded” in to fine form.

Darren O’Day (B-)

O’Day was claimed off waivers, lost his first appearance while wearing Gabbard’s jersey, and now boasts a 1.93 ERA.

Jason Grilli (C+)

Another waiver claim has produced great value out of the bullpen. Grilli possesses a 1.46 ERA. Let’s just say he’s “Grilli” happy to be in Texas.

C.J. Wilson (B)

New year, same story for Wilson. Stretches of brilliance are muddled by moments of foolishness. The eclectic reliever remains one of the top talents in the bullpen.

Frankie Francisco (B-)

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