Texas Rangers: The excitement playing the Houston Astros Opening Day
The Texas Rangers are opening their 2018 season against the defending World Series Champions, the Houston Astros. While Rangers fans are probably nervous about it, it’s a good thing for the club. In any case, it’s always exciting for a baseball team to open a season against the defending champions.
Believe it or not, it’s a golden opportunity for the Texas Rangers to start their season in the right direction. If the Rangers were to win the series miraculously, hopes would rise significantly, and their motivation and concentration will improve. However, since the series is a four-game series so tying the series will also help the Rangers.
The Rangers are about to begin spring training. Pitchers and catchers are reporting next week. They’ll hold their first full-squad workout on the 20th, and they’ll play their first game exhibition on the 24th against the Chicago Cubs.
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Last season was nothing but disappointment and mediocrity for the Rangers. Especially against their in-state rivals. Houston took back the Silver Boot, as well as the World Series which only rubbed salt in the Rangers’ wound. Now the Rangers’ blood is boiling, and they know that they can’t waste any more time. They have to become strong again and do what it takes to win their first title.
It’s no surprise for Houston to be favored to win the series. Heck, it would be no surprise if Houston was favored to win the AL West again, as well as retain the Silver Boot. But the Rangers do not want to allow it.
If the Rangers plan to reclaim the Silver Boot, then they need to find a way to win their series against Houston on Opening Week. Yes, it’ll be tough, but it won’t be impossible. The exciting part of opening the season with Houston is the challenge in this scenario. One way for a baseball team to improve is to be challenged and overcome the odds and beat that problem.
Taking care of business and beating the Astros is step #1 for the Rangers to reclaiming the Silver Boot and possibly winning the American League West.