Sunday hops, 10-13-24.
A weekly compendium emptying the bench, with Rangers developments, rumors, and takes — and yes, a little TROT COFFEY.
A year ago today, the Rangers were getting their first significant rest in weeks, having disposed of the Rays in two games and the Orioles in three, the latter clinched in Arlington on October 10. Game 1 of the ALCS in Houston — and a sixth straight Texas playoff win — awaited on October 15.
What an amazing, consummate, intense, gut-wrenching, hyper-focused, unforgettable time to be sports-alive that was.
Times have changed. (Sports.) Still, winning in pro sports isn’t a random occurrence, and the build that produced the 2023 championship put pieces in place that can continue to be key parts of the puzzle. That feeling from last October, that opportunity, is the grail that Chris Young and his group will be working this winter to reclaim. We as fans crave it, too.
I rolled out Part 1 of the “Building the 2025 Rangers Roster” series this week, focusing on the decisions facing the organization at the catcher position. The second installment, which I’ll have done in the next few days, is going to be far more disruptive in terms of those puzzle pieces. The story will center on first base but, based on the ideas I’m throwing against the wall, will shake up more than just one position.
Young has a challenging job ahead. The whiteboarding is underway.
For now, on to this week’s Hops.
