As the Texas Rangers conclude a turbulent season, they face the daunting task of winning 10 out of their final 12 games to stave off becoming the first defending World Series champion to end the season with a losing record since the 2014 Boston Red Sox, who finished 71-91. It's an arduous journey to avoid infamy, as this year's squad has undoubtedly struggled to replicate last season's magic.
Offensive Woes
Last year's Rangers celebrated a postseason berth by Game 161, powered by an impressive 5.44 runs per game. However, this season accounts for a stark contrast, with the team managing only 4.15 runs per game. This significant decline in offensive output is also reflected in the team's OPS+, which dropped from 116 to 92.
The designated hitters, a key cog in the offensive wheel, have also seen notable regression. Compared to last year's .220/.315/.388 slash line with 26 home runs, this season’s designated hitters have posted a disappointing .200/.263/.309 slash line with a mere 13 home runs. Josh Jung's prolonged absence, due to a broken wrist that kept him sidelined for four months, further compounded the team's struggles.
Injuries Taking a Toll
Injuries have plagued the Rangers, casting dark clouds over what could have been a brighter season. Travis Jankowski, despite being primarily an outfielder, ranks fourth on the team in designated hitter starts, highlighting the instability caused by frequent injuries.
On the mound, the team faced multiple setbacks. Ace Jacob deGrom's season debut came late on September 13, and Max Scherzer's season was marred by early back surgery and a recurring shoulder issue that limited him to just eight starts before another setback in late July. Tyler Mahle, once a promising rotation piece, managed only three starts before succumbing to shoulder issues after undergoing Tommy John surgery last May. Cody Bradford's back injury kept him out for over three months, Nathan Eovaldi dealt with a groin strain, and Jon Gray faced multiple injuries including groin and foot issues, leading to three separate stints on the injured list.
The impact of these injuries is palpable. As Bruce Bochy aptly summarized, "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."
Glimpses of Hope
Despite the struggles, there have been moments of promise. Evan Carter, who made his MLB debut last September 8, showcased his potential with an impressive .306/.413/.645 slash line in 23 regular-season games, followed by a solid .300/.417/.500 performance in the postseason. Newcomer Wyatt Langford, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, has shown flashes of power with 11 home runs through 150 team games this season.
Looking Ahead
Amidst the current difficulties, the team's future holds potential. Chris Young’s recent contract extension provides stability in the front office, and there are aspirations for a healthier roster next season. As Young expressed regarding Tyler Mahle, "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."
However, the team faces critical decisions during the offseason. Key players like Nathan Eovaldi, who will need a new contract unless he opts into his $20 million player option, and free agents Andrew Heaney, José Leclerc, and Max Scherzer, will be focal points in shaping the roster. Additionally, with seasoned veterans like Kirby Yates and David Robertson, aged 37 and 39 respectively, there will be necessary evaluations on how to blend experience with youthful exuberance.
The Texas Rangers’ season has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, with the specter of finishing with a losing record looming large. Yet, amid adversity, there are silver linings and lessons learned. The team's resilience, combined with strategic roster decisions and health recovery, could pave the way for a stronger comeback in the seasons to follow.