Tuesday Newsletter: Rangers Have Higher Expectations for the New Year

The Texas Rangers: Reigning Champions and Setting the Bar High for the Future

In a stunning turn of events, the Texas Rangers emerged victorious in the 2023 World Series, capturing their first-ever championship title. As the upcoming season approaches, the team is armed with a formidable lineup, boasting the majority of their postseason hitters and all six of their All-Stars returning. While some injuries plague the rotation, the Rangers have ample time to address these concerns, potentially assembling their most formidable pitching staff in the final stretch of the season.

Unlike many of their American League West counterparts, the Rangers have not made significant improvements, amplifying the weight of their World Series triumph. With newfound expectations from fans and media alike, the team is keenly aware of the challenges that lie ahead. However, rather than being daunted, the players, ownership, and front office wholeheartedly embrace these lofty expectations as a positive driving force.

Confidence radiates throughout the Rangers organization as they gear up for the 2024 season and beyond. With six weeks until the first spring workout for pitchers and catchers, the team eagerly anticipates their Opening Day game on March 28 at the illustrious Globe Life Field. The All-Star Game, scheduled for July 16, and the regular season’s culmination on September 29 mark key milestones on their path to continued success.

During the remainder of the offseason, the Rangers are poised to make strategic moves to fill the two vacant spots on their 40-man roster. Acquiring a starting pitcher and a seasoned reliever through free agency or trades remains a possibility. While rumors circulate about their interest in Josh Hader, the team’s historical approach to long-term deals for closers may render this unlikely. As spring training commences, additional roster spots can be freed up by transferring injured players to the 60-day injured list. The team might also consider the return of either Robbie Grossman or Travis Jankowski, bolstering their outfield depth and serving as a valuable option at designated hitter.

The Rangers continue to fortify their roster depth through non-roster deals, with the potential for newcomers to earn coveted spots on the Opening Day roster. The team eagerly awaits the commencement of the season, poised to make their mark once again.

In other news, the Rangers Today Baseball Podcast team scouted a location for their highly anticipated live show, urging fans to secure their spots for this exciting event. The subscription for Rangers Today has returned to its regular price, and fans can find official World Series merchandise on the Fanatics website. Additionally, the Rangers Today commemorative book titled “At Long Last” is available for purchase from various retailers.

On a lighter note, a heartwarming video capturing a retired K-9 police dog playing gleefully with a tennis ball has been widely shared on social media, bringing smiles to the faces of fans far and wide.