Texas Rangers Face Crucial Series Against the New York Mets
The Texas Rangers are in New York for a pivotal three-game series against the New York Mets. This series represents 20% of their remaining schedule and holds significant implications for their playoff aspirations.
Rangers' Playoff Push
Despite a strong second half with a .580 winning percentage since the All-Star break, the Rangers find themselves on the outside looking in regarding the playoff picture. A mediocre performance earlier in the season has left them vulnerable, and a poor showing in this series could severely damage their chances of reaching the postseason.
Remarkably, the Rangers have only had one losing month in 2025, May (12-16). They've also had a negative run differential in only two months: March (3-2 despite being outscored 16-25), and September (6-3 with 34 runs scored and 35 allowed).
Mets' Struggles and Fan Discontent
The Mets, despite also possessing a winning record, have faced their own challenges and disappointment. While they currently hold the third Wild Card spot, 1.5 games ahead of the Reds and Giants, their recent performance has dampened the spirits of their fanbase. After leading the National League East by five games in April and being in first place as recently as August 2nd, a subsequent slump has left them 11 games behind. The Mets’ management also has faced questions regarding its high payroll and reliance on unproven starting pitchers in this series.
The Mets have endured a particularly rough patch, going 14-24 since August 1st, including a six-game losing streak, which the Rangers hope to extend. This poor stretch has seen them fall from contention in the division.
Pitching Matchups and Unexpected Starters
The Mets are scheduled to start Jonah Tong, Brandon Sproat, and Nolan McLean in this series. For a team with a $337 million payroll, relying on young and relatively inexperienced pitchers is notable. The Rangers, on the other hand, are facing their own challenges with injuries impacting their offensive production, forcing them to rely on players like Cody Freeman and Alejandro Osuna.
The Rangers are planning to start Jacob deGrom, Patrick Corbin, and Jacob Latz. Jack Leiter, Merrill Kelly and deGrom will follow that series with the Astros series.
Playoff Scenarios and Tiebreakers
The Rangers are two games back of both Houston and Seattle in the standings, but effectively three games back of Seattle due to tiebreaker rules. They are also five games back of Boston in the Wild Card race and 5.5 games behind the Yankees. Securing the tiebreaker against Houston by winning at least one of their three upcoming games against them is crucial.
The Mariners face the Angels, and Houston plays the Braves, adding further complexity to the playoff picture. A Rangers series sweep of the Mets is imperative to help them on their playoff journey.
DeGrom Returns to Citi Field
The series also marks the return of former Mets star Jacob deGrom to Citi Field. This is his first appearance in Queens since leaving in free agency after the 2022 season to sign with the Texas Rangers. He last pitched on the mound on Oct. 8, 2022 for the Mets wild-card victory over the Padres.
DeGrom, who spent nine seasons with the Mets, is considered one of the most dominant pitchers of his generation. Injuries, however, have hampered his career, with Tommy John surgery sidelining him for significant periods. His durability is the only obstacle standing between him and the Hall of Fame.
Alonso's Perspective on DeGrom
Pete Alonso praised deGrom, calling him a "Hall of Famer" and highlighting his exceptional talent when healthy. Alonso emphasized deGrom's importance to the Mets organization and the game of baseball, regardless of his current team affiliation.
This season deGrom has acknowledged he is dialing his velocity down in an effort to stay on the field. He will receive Cy Young votes but will not win with a 2.78 ERA.
