You could have asked any Rangers fan in mid-September about this unlikely playoff run, and they would have given you the old Jim Mora answer of “Playoffs? Don’t talk to me about playoffs!”
The Texas Rangers were down for the count, and looked like a disaster. Even I called it the biggest collapse in Rangers history.
The Rangers then retook first place and held it until game 162. The Astros won the division yet again.
We all started looking ahead to 2024 and how to improve an impoverished bullpen. Likely another bat or two would help as well.
The Change in Attitude
The Rangers made a Wild Card birth and had to fly from Seattle to Tampa, Florida to face off against the 99 win Rays.
Getting swept out and going home was all of our expectations. The Rangers didn’t like our expectations.
I don’t think Rangers fans understood the experience and presence of on Bruce Bochy. His been there done that attitude has taken hold of this team.
After an unlikely sweep of the Rays out of the postseason, the Rangers moved on to Baltimore, a team with 101 wins. Another sweep of the Rangers was likely, but at least they advanced.
A sweep did occur, but it was of the Orioles and not by them. The unlikely Rangers advanced to the ALCS with a 5-0 record in the postseason.
The Game 1 LCS Statement
As unlikely as it seems, the Rangers defeated Justin Verlander in game 1 of the ALCS, something that has never happened to the future hall of fame starter.
Jordan Montgomery was brilliant and Evan Carter and Leody Taveras scored the only two runs of the game. The Rangers now sit at 6-0 in the playoffs.
Fans and media alike underestimated this team. They are proving everyone wrong.
Mike Maddux has this pitching staff, including the bullpen, humming to the tune of a sub 2.25 ERA. The team looks calm and focused.
What Does the Future Hold?
Can the Texas Rangers win it all in 2023? Certainly they can, but for that to happen they need to continue walking, hitting, pitching and playing defense.
They have been the best in all categories so far in the 2023 postseason. Rangers fans are not dumb enough to count the Astros out after just one game.
They have been to seven straight LCS’s for a reason. They are dang good.
Winning the ALCS would be a statement that Houston is not the only good Texas team anymore. The Rangers are here, and they are here to stay.
Everything from this point forward is bonus baseball, as no one thought they would be here. If they win it all, it will be one of the most impressive postseason runs in quite some time.
Don’t forget amongst all the stress and hair pulling to enjoy October baseball Rangers fans. And also, get used to it. The unlikely Texas Rangers are back!
