The Texas Rangers are back in action at Globe Life Field on Wednesday as they take on the New York Mets for the second night.
After a tough 6-3 series-opening loss on Tuesday night, the Texas Rangers are back in action on Wednesday night against the New York Mets for the first of their final five games.
Coming into play, the Rangers are tied for first place in the American League West, so it goes without saying that every remaining game is absolutely critical in helping Texas reach the postseason for the first time since winning it all in 2023. The Rangers are also still alive in the Wild Card race as well, but those chances are looking slim at best.
As for Wednesday night’s game, first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. with parking lots opening at 4:30 p.m., followed by ballpark gates at 5 p.m. You’ll want to make sure you’re at Globe Life Field early, as the first 10,000 fans will receive a Rangers Bomber Jacket.
Cody Bradford gets start for Rangers
When the action on the field gets underway, Cody Bradford will take the mound for the Rangers to make just his eighth start (ninth appearance) of the season.
Bradford comes into play with an 0-5 record, a 4.19 ERA, a 1.50 WHIP, and 20 strikeouts in 38.2 innings. This will mark Bradford’s most important appearance since the 2023 World Series run.
It was just five days ago that Bradford last appeared, pitching behind Tyler Alexander, who served as an opener. Bradford went 4.1 scoreless innings.
The Rangers will need another similar performance as they play in yet another game that feels like a game seven.
On the other side of the ball, Rangers hitters will see electric young right-hander Nolan McLean, who will make his 31st start of the season.
Coming into play, McLean 11-10 with a 3.18 ERA, a 1.19 WHIP, and 189 strikeouts in 172.2 innings.
McLean has never faced the Rangers in his career, but Texas fans may be familiar with him as he started the championship game for Team USA in this Spring’s World Baseball Classic.
Rangers hitters have struggled of late against right-handed pitching, but there’s no time left for struggles. After last night’s loss, this one feels like an essential must-win, and Texas has to find a way to get it.
As things stand today, the Rangers are not a playoff team. They’ve got to find a way to have a successful final five games and win their first division title since 2016.
