How did 2026 season predictions for Rangers play out?

MLB.com's Kennedi Landry reviewed preseason predictions for the Texas Rangers after the club failed to reach the postseason for a third consecutive year. Under new manager Skip Schumaker, Texas showed modest offensive improvements compared to 2025. However, regression across the starting pitching rotation, altered defensive personnel, and middle relief struggles ultimately caused the team to fall short of expectations.

Several individual outcomes deviated from Landry's initial forecasts. Outfielder Evan Carter stayed mostly healthy but struggled offensively with a .194 batting average. Injuries derailed Wyatt Langford, leading utility player Ezequiel Duran to emerge as the team MVP. Closer Jacob Latz earned All-Star honors with a 2.13 ERA, outperforming Jacob deGrom, while Josh Smith was traded to Toronto.