SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Rangers are in a rebuilding mode and have hired manager Chris Woodward to be their field leader. But this is an organization that has not given up on the 2019 season, not with the talented and young offensive players in their lineup.
If the Rangers can put together enough pitching to support their offense and play winning baseball under Woodward, they could make it interesting in the American League West.
What’s the goal
The Rangers have two goals. They need their experienced young offensive players -- Joey Gallo, Nomar Mazara, Rougned Odor, Delino DeShields and Ronald Guzman -- to fulfill the high expectations that have surrounded them the past few years. The Rangers haven’t scored 800 runs in a season since 2012, but they have that kind of potential with this offense. The other goal is for their promising Minor League pitchers -- Jonathan Hernandez, Joe Palumbo, Taylor Hearn, Brock Burke and others -- to make a real push toward being big league starters.
What’s the plan
The Rangers will have a revamped rotation and bullpen. Mike Minor heads the starting staff, but there are four new rotation members behind him. Lance Lynn is the No. 2 guy, followed by Drew Smyly, Shelby Miller and Edinson Volquez. The last three are experienced veterans who are also coming back from Tommy John surgery. Jose Leclerc is back as closer, and veteran right-handers Shawn Kelly, Chris Martin, Jesse Chavez and Zach McAllister have to form the core of the rebuilt bullpen. The Rangers' plan is for their rebuilt staff to be healthy, effective and give the offense a chance to pound the opposition.
What could go wrong
It all comes down to the starting pitching. If Smyly, Miller and Volquez can’t come back and be effective, this might be a long year for the Rangers, and could force them to bring up some young pitchers before they are ready. Also, if Texas doesn't have a big year offensively, well, it will make it even more challenging for the pitching staff.
Who might surprise
Willie Calhoun is competing against Hunter Pence for a spot in the outfield, but the Rangers have been impressed with how Calhoun looks in Spring Training. Same with Patrick Wisdom, who is due for a real chance to play third base. The Rangers also have an intriguing group of hard-throwing young relievers, including Connor Sadzeck, Jordan Romano, Jeffrey Spring, C.D. Pelham, Brett Martin, Kyle Bird, Brady Feigl, Nick Gardewine and Zac Curtis. It may take time to sort through it all but the Rangers could end up with a lights-out bullpen.