Rangers' relievers emerging as major strength following dominant week

The bullpen isn't a question mark anymore for the Texas Rangers.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:20pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting depicting the energy and movement of a baseball game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant splashes of neon color.The Texas Rangers' bullpen has emerged as a major strength, powering the team's early-season success.Oakland Today

The Texas Rangers have gotten off to an 8-7 start this season, tying the Oakland Athletics for first place in the AL West. A big reason for their early success has been the performance of their bullpen, which has posted a 2.35 ERA that ranks third in MLB. This is a significant development for the Rangers, as the bullpen was seen as a major question mark coming into the season.

Why it matters

The Rangers' strong bullpen performance has helped offset an offense that has struggled to score runs so far this season, averaging just 3.9 runs per game. If the Rangers' offense can get going, this team could emerge as a serious contender in the AL, especially with their pitching staff rounding into form.

The details

The Rangers' bullpen has been a strength during the team's 8-7 start, posting a 2.35 ERA that ranks third in MLB. This has helped the Rangers sweep the Seattle Mariners and stay competitive in a tight series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Rangers' starting pitching has also been solid, contributing to the team's 3.46 overall ERA, which ranks seventh in baseball.

  • The Rangers entered the 2026 season with some questions about their roster, particularly in the bullpen.
  • Last week, the Rangers faced tough tests against the Mariners and Dodgers, and were able to sweep the Mariners and stay competitive against the Dodgers.

The players

Texas Rangers

A Major League Baseball team based in Arlington, Texas that plays in the American League West division.

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What they’re saying

“The bullpen was a major question mark for the Rangers entering the season, but the relief corps has been one of the best in baseball with a 2.35 ERA that ranks third in the majors.”

— Joel Reuter, Bleacher Report

What’s next

If the Rangers' offense can get going and start scoring more runs, this team could emerge as a serious contender in the AL this season.

The takeaway

The Rangers' strong bullpen performance has been a pleasant surprise so far this season, helping the team overcome an offense that has struggled to score runs. If the offense can improve, the Rangers could be a team to watch in the AL West.