The Texas Rangers captured their first World Series title just two seasons ago, but they’ve struggled mightily since then. That’s why this offseason carries so much weight – the organization can’t afford to let a two-year slide turn into years of mediocrity.
So how’s it going? Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young feels pretty good about where things stand, at least on one side of the ball.
“I think from a position player standpoint, we feel pretty good,” Young said late last week.
Looking at the roster, it’s easy to see why Young’s optimistic. After losing Marcus Semien, Adolis García, and Jonah Heim, the Rangers have built their core around shortstop Corey Seager. Pair him with rising star Wyatt Langford, and Texas believes they’ve got a one-two punch that can compete with anyone in the American League.
But confidence doesn’t answer all the questions hanging over this lineup.
Brandon Nimmo, acquired from the Mets in the Semien trade, brings a different skill set to Arlington. How will he adjust to his new surroundings? Jake Burger had a forgettable first season in a Rangers uniform – can he bounce back?
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The catching situation presents its own challenges. Kyle Higashioka and Danny Jansen need to provide the offensive production that’s been missing from that position for two years running.
Then there’s the health factor. Josh Jung and Evan Carter both have talent, but can they stay on the field long enough to make a real impact? At second base, Josh Smith showed flashes, but putting together 162 games of quality at-bats is a different challenge entirely.
Young has every right to feel confident – he’s the guy who delivered Texas their first championship, after all. But these questions won’t get answered until Opening Day on March 26.
If Young’s assessment proves correct and this group can compete, the Rangers might find themselves back in contention. If not, they’re looking at a third straight season on the outside of the playoffs.
The margin for error isn’t huge here. Young and the Rangers have made their bet on this core group of position players, banking on Seager’s leadership and Langford’s development to carry them through. Now they just need to prove it on the field.
