MLB analyst pinpoints the three hitters key to a Rangers' postseason return

During the 2023 season, the Texas Rangers shocked many by reaching the World Series, taking on the Arizona Diamondbacks. They ended up beating them 4-1 and lifting the trophy for the first time in franchise history. 

Since then, it has been tough sledding. The club has failed to even make the postseason since hoisting the World Series trophy. 

However, there is some hype surrounding this team this year. The pitching staff should be elite once again, but the question remains on the offensive side of things. 

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MLB analyst pinpoints the three hitters key to a Rangers' postseason return

The Rangers finished the regular season with an 81-81 record. Offense failed to come in clutch in plenty of those games, and the team could have been much better. 

Now, with the addition of MacKenzie Gore, the club's offense cannot be a talking point once again. MLB.com's Jared Greenspan puts the pressure on Joc Pederson, Jake Burger, and Josh Jung to get back on track. 

"So while the lineup may not have to score a ton of runs in order for Texas to be successful, there are still plenty of viable bounce-back candidates. Maybe the Rangers can get more from the trio of Joc Pederson, Jake Burger and Josh Jung, which combined for an 87 wRC+ in 2025 after posting a collective 123 wRC+ in 2024."

The odds that Pederson will have a better year in 2026 than in 2025 are high. He dealt with a fracture in his right hand last season after getting hit by a pitch, causing him to miss 52 games. Just him alone returning to form, or close to it, could be enough.

Jung will certainly be one to watch out for this season. He is coming off a healthy winter and has all the makings to return to being the player that made him a 2023 All-Star. 

While he was not mentioned, fans will also want to pay attention to Wyatt Langford. He could be a huge breakout candidate this year.

More MLB news:

• The Giants' success hinges on an offense finally outperforming its projections
• Everything points toward a massive offensive breakout for Bryce Eldridge this year
• Diamondbacks' Tyler Locklear could be in store for a monster season at the plate
• Pirates' Jared Triolo looks to carry his strong second half into a massive 2026 season
• Cubs' Moises Ballesteros looking to take the next step this year