The Texas Rangers are currently enjoying a successful moment in their season, with a six-game winning streak that has propelled them into a tie for the third American League Wild Card spot alongside the Seattle Mariners, both teams sitting at 56-50. While Seattle would currently edge them out in a tiebreaker based on their head-to-head record, the Rangers are also only four games behind the Houston Astros in the AL West.
This resurgence comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the Major League Baseball trade deadline on July 31. Following a strong performance in July, where they posted a record of 14-6 and have won nine of their last ten games, the Rangers, who were initially thought to be potential sellers, are now looking to bolster their roster.
Key areas of focus for the Rangers leading up to the deadline include acquiring a first baseman and high-leverage reliever. This is particularly critical as offseason signings Jake Burger and Joc Pederson have not met expectations due to injuries or performance issues. Pederson, who has just returned from injury, is considered a vital player who could elevate Texas’s title chances if he finds his form.
The team’s bullpen has so far performed admirably, holding a 3.25 ERA—third-best in baseball. However, there have been concerns about depth and reliability, especially following early-season struggles with their closer.
Potential trade targets for the Rangers include prominent relief pitchers such as Jhoan Duran from the Minnesota Twins, Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith from the Cleveland Guardians, and Griffin Jax from the Twins, all of whom could strengthen the Rangers’ bullpen. The Rangers may also consider pursuing Orioles first baseman Ryan O’Hearn, who is having a standout season.
Conversely, there’s speculation surrounding Adolis Garcia, who has struggled this season but holds value due to his potential. He may attract interest from teams looking for offensive depth, although Texas is also cautious, considering he is controlled for another year.
With the trade deadline approaching, the Rangers have both challenges and opportunities ahead of them. If they manage to secure the right additions, they could significantly enhance their chances of making a playoff push.
The Rangers’ ability to navigate this crucial period, combined with their recent form, offers a hopeful outlook for fans eager to see the team return to postseason play. To maintain their momentum, the choices made in the next few days will be pivotal for their long-term success this season.