The Texas Rangers are gearing up for their first spring training game against the Kansas City Royals in Surprise, Arizona. As the season approaches, there are a few key storylines to watch.
Brandon Nimmo Takes the Lead
Brandon Nimmo is set to make his mark as the Rangers' new leadoff hitter in 2026. He'll be playing right field, joining Evan Carter and Wyatt Langford in the outfield.
While Nimmo is no stranger to leading off, right field is a relatively new position for him. Expect him to focus on getting comfortable there throughout spring training.
Closer Competition Narrows
The Rangers' bullpen is undergoing changes after losing several key pitchers in the offseason. The battle for the closer role has been a hot topic, but new manager Skip Schumaker has narrowed it down to two main contenders: Robert Garcia and Chris Martin.
Martin, a seasoned veteran at 39, brings experience, while Garcia, a decade younger, is looking to make his mark. Alexis Diaz, with the most saves among the trio, is also in the mix but will need to prove himself.
Emphasizing Clubhouse Culture
Schumaker is placing a strong emphasis on rebuilding the clubhouse culture, aiming to recapture the spirit of the Rangers' 2023 World Series championship team. With a focus on fostering "competitors over complainers," Schumaker is determined to set a new tone and lead the team into a successful era.
As spring training unfolds, these developments will be crucial in shaping the Rangers' upcoming season.