Entering the 2026 season, the Texas Rangers recognized they would need to perform at their peak. The Seattle Mariners didn’t lose much talent over the winter, nor did the Athletics, and the Houston Astros can never be dismissed.
Seattle has gotten off to a strong start, and so have the A’s, but the Rangers have hit some early difficulties. With a 25–30 record, they sit third in the AL West, two games behind the first-place Mariners.
An inconsistent offense has done them no favors, nor have their strange home/road splits—they seem to make harder contact more frequently on the road than at home.
MLB analyst puts pressure on Rangers’ outfielder to turn things around at the plate
Beyond the home/road splits, the Rangers have also struggled with runners in scoring position. They’re striking out 25% of the time and drawing very few walks in high-leverage situations.
That said, not everyone is underperforming. Brandon Nimmo, acquired via offseason trade, has played well, while Josh Jung and Jake Burger have elevated their games this season.
But one player who could truly help reverse the team’s fortunes if his offense awakens is Evan Carter. According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, Carter is the team’s least valuable player.
“Carter is actually second to Nimmo among Rangers hitters in WAR, so he’s clearly doing something right (hint: defense). But he’s also hitting .163 with an OBP in the .200s and a slugging percentage in the low .300s, so let’s not pretend he’s been a joy to watch.”
Carter hasn’t made consistent hard contact this season, and his average exit velocity has dropped. Perhaps his back is still an issue, or the wrist injury from last season lingers. Either way, the Rangers need him to rebound if they hope to climb the division standings.
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