The Texas Rangers' quest to avoid a woeful distinction is reaching its critical juncture. With only 12 games remaining this season, they must win 10 to sidestep becoming the first defending World Series champion with a losing record since the 2014 Boston Red Sox. Last year, the Rangers clinched a postseason berth late, in Game 161, with a dynamic offense averaging 5.44 runs per game. However, this season has painted a darker picture, with the team struggling to average just 4.15 runs per game.
Offensive Decline
Not only have the Rangers scored fewer runs, but their hitters have also experienced significant declines in performance metrics. The team's OPS+ dropped from a robust 116 last year to a disappointing 92 this season. The designated hitters, who posted a .220/.315/.388 slash line with 26 home runs last year, have especially struggled, slashing an anemic .200/.263/.309 with only 13 home runs this season.
Their struggles can be partly attributed to the absence of key players. Josh Jung missed four months due to a broken wrist, and Travis Jankowski's increased role in the designated hitter rotation highlighted the lack of depth. Even the return of Jacob deGrom on September 13 and Max Scherzer's comeback on June 23 after back surgery could not fully turn the tide, as Scherzer was sidelined again by a shoulder issue in late July.
Injury Woes
Injuries have been a recurring theme for the Rangers. Tyler Mahle, who managed only three starts this year, underwent Tommy John surgery last May. Cody Bradford missed over three months with a back injury, while Nathan Eovaldi was out for nearly a month with a groin strain. Jon Gray's season was plagued by groin and foot injuries, resulting in three separate stints on the injured list. These injuries have undoubtedly played a part in the team's struggles.
Despite the setbacks, team officials remain optimistic. "It's been talked about so much, how difficult it is to repeat," said Manager Bruce Bochy. "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."
New Talent Showing Promise
Amid the difficulties, new talents have emerged. Evan Carter, who made his MLB debut on September 8 last year, has been a bright spot in an otherwise bleak season. In his 23 regular-season games, Carter posted a .306/.413/.645 slash line and followed it up with a .300/.417/.500 performance in the postseason. Additionally, Wyatt Langford, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, has shown power with 11 home runs this season.
Looking to the future, Chris Young, the team's general manager whose contract was recently extended, believes better days are ahead. "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," said Young.
Contract Considerations and Aging Roster
As the Rangers navigate the final stretch of the season, the front office faces crucial decisions regarding veteran players. Notable among these is Nathan Eovaldi, who will need a new contract unless he opts for his $20 million player option. Meanwhile, the team has aging players like Kirby Yates, 37, and David Robertson, 39, who may also need to be reassessed. Several key players, including Andrew Heaney, José Leclerc, and Max Scherzer, are set to become free agents, which could significantly alter the team's dynamics heading into next season.
Prospects Jack Leiter, a former No. 2 pick, and Wyatt Langford provide a glimmer of hope, but it remains to be seen whether the infusion of new talent will be enough to offset the potential departures and age-related declines of core veterans. As the season dwindles down to its final games, the Rangers will need to muster every remaining effort to salvage what has been a challenging year and build a foundation for future success.