The Texas Rangers are making significant adjustments to their offense as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 season. After a disappointing performance in 2025, where the team ranked among the bottom five in major offensive statistics, the Rangers are looking to improve their lineup. While key changes have been made, including the addition of players like catcher Danny Jansen, questions persist regarding the overall effectiveness of the offense.
During a recent call with reporters, General Manager Ross Fenstermaker emphasized that the Rangers will remain “open-minded and opportunistic” about potential additions before pitchers and catchers report to Surprise, Arizona, in mid-February. Despite the emphasis on pitching as the main focus, the team’s offensive performance will be critical to their success.
The Rangers made notable changes to their roster, bringing in players who outperformed their predecessors. Three below-average hitters have been replaced by two players who exceeded league averages last season. This shift reflects a strategic approach that prioritizes internal development while also acknowledging the need for improvements.
The competition for the shortstop position is particularly intriguing, with Josh Smith emerging as the frontrunner. Smith, a utility player with a history of strong performance, faces the challenge of maintaining consistency throughout the season. Last year, his on-base plus slugging percentage dropped significantly after the All-Star break, raising concerns about his ability to sustain high-level play.
In addition to Smith, other in-house options such as Ezequiel Duran and Cody Freeman are vying for key roles. Duran, who performed admirably in the Dominican Professional Baseball League this winter, is viewed as a potential asset. His impressive slash line of .338/.399/.463 in 35 games has fueled optimism about his contributions to the team.
The outfield position remains one of the most competitive areas for the Rangers, with Sam Haggerty and Michael Helman fighting for spots. The health and performance of Jackie Carter, once the team’s top prospect, will be crucial. If Carter can avoid injuries and improve his performance against left-handed pitchers, he could solidify his place as an everyday player.
The potential for a strong outfield increases with the combination of Carter, Haggerty, and newcomer Brady Langford. Should they succeed, the Rangers could field an above-average outfield with a mix of experience and youthful talent. Conversely, failure to establish a clear starting lineup could test the team’s depth.
As the Rangers prepare for the 2026 season, their strategy remains focused on internal growth. The team did not pursue major offensive upgrades during last summer’s trade deadline, citing the need for holistic improvements rather than singular additions. This off-season, their success will hinge on whether players who struggled last year can regain their form and contribute meaningfully.
The Steamer prediction model anticipates improvement for several key players, projecting Jake Burger to achieve a slash line of .246/.298/.455 with 24 home runs and Josh Jung to hit .252/.298/.422 with 15 home runs. These projections suggest that the Rangers’ offensive landscape may evolve significantly if players meet their potential.
As the organization approaches the new season, Jon Daniels, the team’s president of baseball operations, stated, “We, as an organization, have a lot to prove. These players are motivated and hungry.” The upcoming season presents an opportunity for the Rangers to demonstrate their commitment to improvement and reclaim their status as a competitive force in Major League Baseball.
