As Thanksgiving approaches, it's a time to reflect on the blessings and positives, and for the Texas Rangers, despite missing the playoffs after an up-and-down season, there are still several things the organization and its fans can be thankful for.
1. The Continued Excellence of Corey Seager
Even with the team's overall struggles, Corey Seager remains a shining star. The shortstop continued to be a force at the plate, despite being limited to 123 games due to injury. He finished the 2024 season with a .278 batting average, 132 hits, 21 doubles, and 30 home runs. His presence in the lineup is a constant threat to opposing pitchers, and his leadership in the clubhouse is invaluable. The Rangers are thankful to have such a talented and dedicated player as a cornerstone of their franchise. Seager's ability to produce at a high level, even when facing setbacks, underscores how vital he is to Texas' title hopes.
2. The Stability Provided by Nathan Eovaldi
The Rangers made a firm statement of continuity by re-signing veteran starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi to a three-year, $75 million contract. Eovaldi was instrumental in their 2023 championship run and, despite the team's overall struggles in 2024, remained one of the more dependable arms in the rotation. His return offers both stability and postseason experience. Locking him in for the foreseeable future ensures that the Rangers' pitching staff has a proven anchor. Given the volatility of starting rotations league-wide, keeping Eovaldi was a no-brainer for a team trying to return to October baseball.
3. The Development of Young Talent
While the Rangers didn't reach their ultimate goal of a playoff berth in 2025, the season provided valuable opportunities for young players to gain experience and showcase their potential. Jack Leiter made his final start of the season and has been really good, especially for a rookie. Wyatt Langford capped off a strong season. Watching the development of these young players gives the Rangers and their fans hope for the future. These players represent the next wave of talent, and their growth is crucial for the long-term success of the franchise.
Looking ahead, the Rangers will aim to build upon these positives and address the areas that need improvement. With a mix of established stars and promising young players, the future remains bright for the Texas Rangers.
