Texas Rangers: 2023 World Series Champions
In the heart of the Lone Star State, the Texas Rangers shocked the baseball world by clinching the 2023 World Series championship in five games against the Arizona Diamondbacks. While this article may not have the profound words of someone like Jamie Newburg or Evan Grant, two seasoned baseball journalists, it aims to emphasize the significance of this remarkable victory for the Rangers and their devoted fans, like us.
The Next Man Up Mentality
The Texas Rangers entered the 2023 MLB season with the expectation from most fans that they would be a break even team with around a .500 record. At the beginning of the season, I tweeted that I would be happy with a .500 record, which would be a 14-game improvement from the 2022 season.
They finished the regular season with a 90-72 win-loss record. Their roster, on paper was as talented as any other roster but on the starting pitching side, there were injury concerns, especially with Jacob deGrom. When he went down with his injury requiring Tommy John, Dane Dunning filled in rather nicely.
When Corey Seager landed on the IL, Ezequiel Durán filled in for him and the same for Josh Jung.
When Adolis GarcÃa and Max Scherzer were taken off the World Series roster, Marcus Semien stepped up at the plate and Andrew Heaney delivered 5 innings of one run ball. Also, I can’t forget Travis Jankowski going 2-for-4 with 2 RBI.
A Historic Journey
The Rangers’ journey to the championship was filled with twists and unforgettable moments. They wound setting a Major League record going 11-0 on the road in the post-season. From walk-off home runs to nail-biting extra-inning victories, they proved that baseball is as much about heart and determination as it is about statistics and analytics.
Bruce Bochy
Under the astute leadership of their manager, Bruce Bochy, the Rangers displayed a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Defensively, the Rangers committed the least amount of errors in the entire league at 0.35 errors a game. In 2022, they were 25th with 0.60 errors a game.
Bochy’s strategic acumen, especially with managing a bullpen that for most of the season wasn’t good at best, and instilling a winning mindset in his players were key factors in the team’s success.
His faith in the roster and his innovative approach to the game were instrumental in guiding the Rangers to their first World Series win.
This is Bruce Bochy’s fourth Championship. He won with the Giants in 2010, 2012 and 2014. This makes the first Championship Bochy has won in an odd numbered year.
The Rising Stars
One of the most exciting aspects of the Rangers’ championship run was the emergence of young talent like Evan Carter . He started his season in Double-A Frisco and ended it by winning a Championship. He never let the moment get too big for him, would would’ve been easy for the 21-year-old to do.
Josh Jung, should win Rookie of the Year. He won’t but he should in my opinion. He made some Beltre-esque defensive stops quite a few times throughout the season and post-season.
The Rangers’ journey to the 2023 World Series championship was all about defying the odds. They overcame injuries, late-season slumps, and formidable opponents in the Rays, Orioles, Astros and Diamonds. This victory is a testament to the resilience and unwavering determination of the players and the support of their dedicated fan base.
The 2023 Texas Rangers etched their name in the annals of baseball history, with sheer grit and determination that defines the spirit of the sport. Their World Series victory is a reminder that in the world of sports, and in life, that sometimes unexpected teams can rise to the occasion and achieve greatness.
For the fans who have supported them through thick and thin, this championship is a source of pride and a memory that will be cherished for generations to come. While the words may not be as eloquent, the story of the 2023 Texas Rangers is one that will be told with passion.
The 2011 World Series isn’t nearly as haunting now that we have the first Championship in franchise history in 2023.
Here’s to you Mom! The Rangers finally got their Championship!