Rangers catch fire as a deadline decisions loom

After an up-and-down first half of the season, the Texas Rangers have found their spark—and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

Coming off a commanding 8–1 stretch that included back-to-back sweeps of the Orioles and Braves, the Rangers have rocketed into the thick of the playoff hunt. With a six-game win streak under their belt (snapped only last night by the Angels), the Texas Rangers look locked in. They’re now sitting just four games back in the AL West and holding strong in the Wild Card race.

“It’s been a different kind of energy since the break,” manager Bruce Bochy said after Sunday’s sweep. “Guys are playing loose, playing smart baseball, and the results speak for themselves.”

That “smart baseball” is translating to run support, timely pitching, and a revived clubhouse. Josh Jung has led the way with a seven-game hit streak and his 10th home run of the season, while Marcus Semien, despite a rough patch, continues to anchor the infield with veteran presence.

Still, the Rangers know this momentum needs support—and that’s where the trade deadline comes in.

According to league sources, Texas has been in talks with multiple clubs and is actively pursuing bullpen help. Closers David Bednar (Pirates) and Ryan Helsley (Cardinals) top the list of targets. The Rockies’ pen trio has also drawn interest.

“We’re looking at where we can get better,” Rangers GM Chris Young told reporters Tuesday. “This is a good team, but good isn’t the goal. We’ve won before. We want to win again.”

The Rangers have already made moves: activating Joc Pederson from the IL and reinstating Jon Gray to the rotation. Both are expected to play significant roles in the second-half push.

“We’re all in,” said Corey Seager, who has quietly put together another solid year at the plate. “The front office has our back, and we’re ready to run through whatever comes next.”

As for the deadline, don’t expect the Rangers to sit still.

“I’d be surprised if we didn’t make at least one move,” Bochy said. “We owe it to the guys in this room to give them the best shot.”

With a surging roster, a manager who’s been here before, and a front office that isn’t afraid to deal, the Rangers are shifting gears at the right time. Whether that translates to another deep October run remains to be seen—but Arlington is buzzing again.