TEXAS RANGERS (95-67), 1ST, AL WEST
uSeason snapshot: The Rangers earned their second consecutive American League West title and this time had the league’s best record. They held off runs by the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros in proving last year’s second-half surge to the division crown was no fluke. Left-hander
pitched like the ace he is, and the return of right-handed
came at the right time with others in the rotation battling injuries and bad outings. But the Rangers’ bread is buttered by their hitting, led by ageless third baseman
(32 homers, 104 RBI). went from an All-Star infielder with the Washington Nationals to an AllStar outfielder with the Rangers, and
helped compensate for the absences of Josh Hamilton, who never got on the field and then was released, and
who dealt with various injuries and played in only 48 games. The midsummer additions of catcher
and outfielder made an offensive club that much more dangerous.
uWhat now: Stung by their meltdown when they were eliminated by the Toronto Blue Jays in last year’s division series, the Rangers grabbed home-field advantage throughout the playoffs this time and feel poised to take the next step. Choo’s mending broken forearm held up well in games leading up to the playoffs, and he should be able to contribute. Right-hander
is ready for the closer role after becoming the first Rangers pitcher to have at least 35 saves and 73 appearances.
uFree agent focus: The Rangers have additional money to fill needs, if they wish, after first baseman was forced to retire this summer because of neck issues. Some key players are set to become free agents, including Lucroy, Beltran, Desmond and first baseman
Texas figures to place a high priority on Lucroy and Desmond. Beltran is likely expendable considering the wealth of young talent the Rangers possess. Moreland could return. uProspects
could be a mid-rotation starter after adding velocity this season to a fastball that complements a sneaky changeup. Right-hander throws harder than anyone in the organization. The 6-7, 240-pounder’s fastball sits in the high 90s, and he occasionally hits triple digits. If he can improve his control, his path to the Rangers could be accelerated as a possible bullpen component.
Jay Paris