Strong finish gives Patrick Rodgers 3-shot Texas Open lead

SAN ANTONIO — Patrick RodgersOn Friday, he took a step closer to his first PGA Tour victory – his first Masters appearance – shooting a 5-under 67 for a three-stroke lead in the second round at the weather-delayed Valero Texas Open.

Rodgers finished his opening round 66 on Friday morning and birdied four of five final holes at TPC San Antonio for a total of 36 holes of 11-under-133.

Rodgers, who is making his 235th tour start, said that it was something he’s always dreamed of. “I’m excited about the chance. It’s going be a great couple of days.”

Corey ConnersAfter a 72-hour competition, he was 8 under the 2019 San Antonio winner. Michael ThompsonShot 68 and was another shot back.

Due to the hours-long fog delays that occurred on Thursday morning, Friday’s afternoon portion of the draw was in catch-up mode. Roberto Diaz, who was 8 under, had eight holes to play when darkness stopped play. Brendon ToddWith three holes remaining, it was 7 under.

Rodgers’ tee shot at the 198-yard 16th stopped within 8 feet. He also had another birdie within 10 feet at 17. For his final birdie, he reached the par-5 18th at 593 yards in two.

Rodgers stated, “I love to make it feel pretty seamless. It’s easy.”

Rodgers, 30, was a star at Stanford College but has not won since he joined the PGA Tour in 2015.

Conners lost the lead after making mistakes in the middle part of his round. Conners shot four-putt his seventh hole, par-3 16th, with three attempts within 4 feet. His tee shot from the 17th hole was sunk into the brush and he made bogey.

Conners said, “A little brainless.” “That was an unfortunate blemish to the scorecard. I would love to have that removed. But that’s just how it works.

Conners, who had not won since his Texas Open victory four year ago, rebounded with a 2 under round on his second nine. He also made birdies on both par 5s.

Conners will be at Augusta National next Wednesday, but the final spot in the Masters is up for grabs in San Antonio by the winner if he’s still not eligible.