The 2024 Texas Rangers: A Season of Disappointment and Future Aspirations
After a magical run to the 2023 World Series, the Texas Rangers found themselves crashing back to earth in 2024. The team, which had basked in the glory of its first championship, faced a stark reality as they were eliminated from postseason contention on September 20, finishing third in the American League West. Let’s take a closer look at the season that was, the challenges ahead, and what the future might hold for this storied franchise.
A Season of High Hopes and Low Returns
The 2024 season was marked by a series of disappointments for the Rangers, who became the first team since the 2014 Boston Red Sox to follow a World Series championship with a losing record. Despite the high expectations, the team struggled to replicate its previous success, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.
One of the few bright spots was the performance of veteran relievers Kirby Yates and David Robertson. Both players defied age and expectations, providing stability in the late innings. Yates took on the closer role, while Robertson served as a reliable setup man, proving that experience can still shine in a young man’s game.
Corey Seager, while unable to match his stellar 2023 numbers, remained a consistent presence in the lineup, showcasing his power and on-base skills. Josh Smith also emerged as a versatile player, earning more playing time and contributing across multiple positions.
The Downfall: What Went Wrong
When a team transitions from champions to pretenders, the reasons are often multifaceted. For the Rangers, several key players underperformed, leading to a disappointing season. Marcus Semien, while durable, saw a noticeable decline in his offensive production. Adolis García, a pivotal figure in the previous year’s success, struggled significantly after a promising start. After a strong April, he fell into a slump, batting under .200 for three consecutive months.
The struggles weren’t limited to veterans. Young talents like Wyatt Langford, Evan Carter, and Josh Jung faced their own challenges. Langford, touted as one of the most exciting rookies, battled injuries and inconsistency throughout the season. Carter, who had shone in the postseason the previous year, managed only a .633 OPS and was limited to 45 games due to a back injury. Jung’s season was derailed early on by a fractured wrist, sidelining him until late July.
The pitching staff also faced significant hurdles. Aging stars Max Scherzer and Jacob deGrom failed to make the impact the team had hoped for. Scherzer struggled with injuries, while DeGrom’s return from Tommy John surgery came too late to salvage the season. The rotation was further weakened by Nathan Eovaldi and Andrew Heaney heading to free agency, leaving the team with more questions than answers.
Offseason Plans: Rebuilding and Recovery
Despite the disappointing season, there is a silver lining for the Rangers. The foundation built during their championship run remains intact, and with the right adjustments, they could quickly return to contention. Seager and Semien are locked into long-term contracts, ensuring stability in the middle of the infield. The team will look to García, Langford, and Carter to bounce back and fulfill their potential, while Jung is expected to solidify the third base position.
However, the pitching staff presents a more complex challenge. With several key players heading to free agency, the Rangers will need to be proactive in the offseason. Adding two reliable starters is essential, as the team cannot afford to rely solely on the existing rotation. The bullpen also requires attention, with Yates and Robertson’s futures uncertain. General manager Chris Young will need to prioritize adding at least two relievers to bolster the team’s chances in 2025.
Prospects on the Horizon: A Bright Future
While the Rangers’ immediate prospect pool may not be overflowing with ready-to-contribute talent, there are glimmers of hope on the horizon. Kumar Rocker, the third overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to debut in 2026. Position player Sebastian Walcott, just 18 years old, is another name to watch, showcasing immense potential.
Justin Foscue, who performed well in Triple-A, could serve as a utility player or a valuable trade chip in the search for pitching help. Emiliano Teodo, a promising pitcher who turned heads at the 2024 Futures Game, could make an impact in the rotation by 2025.
Goals for 2025: Aiming for the Postseason
Looking ahead, the Rangers should set their sights on returning to the postseason in 2025. The team will need significant contributions from key players, including Semien, García, Langford, Carter, and Jung. While this may seem like a tall order, the veterans have proven their capabilities, and the young stars were once among the most coveted prospects in baseball.
The front office will also need to invest in the pitching staff. Without bolstering the rotation and bullpen, the Rangers risk repeating the mistakes of 2024. The upcoming offseason will be crucial in determining the team’s trajectory.
As the Rangers navigate the challenges of rebuilding, fans remain hopeful that the magic of 2023 can be rekindled, paving the way for a brighter future in Texas baseball.