Struggling Texas Rangers Face Uphill Battle to Finish Strong
The Texas Rangers find themselves in a precarious position as the season winds down. With only 12 games left, they need to win 10 to avoid the ignominy of becoming the first defending World Series champions to end the season with a losing record since the 2014 Boston Red Sox. Last year, the Rangers clinched a postseason berth at Game 161, but this season, consistency has eluded them.
The Rangers' offensive output has plummeted compared to last year. They scored an impressive 5.44 runs per game last season, but that figure has dropped to just 4.15 runs per game this year. Additionally, the team's OPS+ has decreased from 116 to 92, indicating a significant decline in overall offensive performance.
One of the critical factors affecting the Rangers this season has been the performance of their designated hitters. Last year, designated hitters combined for a .220/.315/.388 slash line with 26 home runs. This season, they have only managed a .200/.263/.309 slash line with 13 home runs, signaling a stark drop in production.
Injuries have also taken a toll on the Rangers. Josh Jung missed four months with a broken wrist, and Travis Jankowski, who ranks fourth on the team in designated hitter starts, has had to step up in his absence. The pitching staff has not been spared either. Jacob deGrom made his season debut only on September 13, having been sidelined for most of the year.
Max Scherzer missed the first few weeks of the regular season due to back surgery, returned on June 23, and made eight starts before a shoulder issue sidelined him once again in late July. Tyler Mahle's contribution has been minimal; after undergoing Tommy John surgery last May, he managed only three starts this year before another shoulder issue sidelined him.
Cody Bradford and Nathan Eovaldi have also experienced lengthy absences due to injuries. Bradford missed over three months with a back injury, and Eovaldi was out nearly a month with a groin strain. Jon Gray battled groin and foot injuries, landing on the injured list three separate times.
Manager Bruce Bochy acknowledged the team’s struggles, saying, "It's been talked about so much, how difficult it is to repeat. There's been a number of reasons why we're not where we want to be. Every season is different, it takes a life of its own, whether guys aren't having their normal years or injuries. Our goal is to finish strong here."
There have been some bright spots amidst the adversity. Evan Carter, who made his MLB debut on September 8 last year, had a .306/.413/.645 slash line in 23 regular-season games and maintained a .300/.417/.500 line in the postseason. Wyatt Langford, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, has shown promise, hitting 11 home runs through 150 team games this season. Additionally, the Rangers extended Chris Young's contract, securing the stability of their front office.
Looking ahead, the Rangers will face critical decisions regarding their roster. Nathan Eovaldi will need a new contract unless he opts for his $20 million player option. The futures of veterans Kirby Yates, 37, and David Robertson, 39, also hang in the balance. Furthermore, Andrew Heaney, José Leclerc, and Max Scherzer will enter free agency, adding to the uncertainty.
Despite the trials, the organization remains optimistic about its young talent. Chris Young expressed hope for Tyler Mahle’s future, stating, "I think before the surgery, Tyler was really coming into his own, and a couple years ago he had a tremendous season. We're excited about where he is in his career with his age, the recovery he's going to make, and the ability to hopefully help our team in the second half of this season and certainly in 2025 as a mid-rotation starter and with upside potential there."
As the Rangers head into the final stretch, their immediate future hinges on overcoming the challenges that have marred their season. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising young talent, the organization aims to finish strong and lay a foundation for sustained success in the years to come.