The Rangers Flopped but Baseball in October Is Still Must-See TV

By CASEY EHLER/Contributor

Editor’s note: As of Sept 30, 2024, the Texas Ranger did not make the 2024 playoffs.

As I am writing this, the odds the Texas Rangers will make a spot in the playoffs are one in a million. This year’s team has been bogged down with injuries and a struggling rotation. However, this is not an excuse for missing the playoffs, especially after winning the World Series last year. Here’s what the Rangers need to do to improve in the offseason and come back stronger next season.

What the Rangers need to do:

The Texas Rangers have a solid lineup but struggles toward the bottom with power. Trading Leody Taveras and adding an extra bat would be a good move. The starting rotation needs some serious help as well. Jacob deGrom made his return along with Nathan Eovaldi. However, these two are really the team’s only strong pitchers. Max Scherzer is nearing retirement and has seriously slowed down, and Jon Gray cannot seem to stay healthy.

If the Rangers added two solid starting pitchers, a few players to the bullpen, and one or two bats, they would be in good hands for next season.

The Competition and the October Season

The other problem is the competition. For instance, the Houston Astros have formed a dynasty reaching the American League Championship Series seven years in a row. Needless to say, the American League West is not getting any easier and it is crucial the Rangers add players that can contribute.

Additionally, the playoffs are only a couple of weeks away, and many teams have already clinched spots. The Dodgers have been a powerhouse team with a strong lineup. They have a high chance of going far if they do not crack under pressure like they are known to do in the playoffs. The Yankees are another imposing team that I am excited to see play. That is especially if they get an ALCS rematch with the Astros.

Baseball in October is exciting, no matter if your team is in it or not. I am still not sure what team I will be rooting for, but I will certainly be glued to my TV watching every game and every moment.