Rangers' MacKenzie Gore Solid in Spring Training Debut

Lefty pitcher focuses on positives after allowing two runs in 1 2/3 innings against Rockies

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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MacKenzie Gore, the Texas Rangers' new left-handed pitcher acquired from the Washington Nationals, made his spring training debut against the Colorado Rockies. While he allowed two earned runs on three hits in 1 2/3 innings, Gore largely took positives from his first unofficial Rangers start, saying he "felt good" and made progress from his previous live bullpen sessions.

Why it matters

As a key offseason acquisition for the Rangers, Gore's spring training performance will be closely watched as he looks to solidify his spot in the team's starting rotation. His ability to adapt to a new team, coaching staff, and game conditions will be crucial to his success in the upcoming season.

The details

Gore retired the side in order in the first inning, reaching 97 mph with his fastball and throwing 9 of his 11 pitches for strikes. However, he ran into trouble in the second inning when a fly ball was lost in the sun, leading to two runs scoring. Despite the hiccup, Gore said he felt good and made progress from his previous live bullpen sessions as he works to get his stuff and sequences in order with his new catchers and staff.

  • On February 22, 2026, MacKenzie Gore made his spring training debut for the Texas Rangers against the Colorado Rockies.

The players

MacKenzie Gore

A 26-year-old left-handed pitcher acquired by the Texas Rangers from the Washington Nationals in a trade last month.

Jordan Beck

A Colorado Rockies player whose fly ball was lost in the sun, leading to two runs scoring off of Gore in the second inning.

Michael Helman

A Texas Rangers left fielder who lost a fly ball in the sun, contributing to Gore's struggles in the second inning.

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What they’re saying

“I felt good. I feel like I made a lot of steps forward from the live [bullpen], so yeah, I felt good.”

— MacKenzie Gore (dallasnews.com)

What’s next

Gore will continue to work on getting his stuff and sequences dialed in with his new Rangers teammates and coaching staff as he competes for a spot in the team's starting rotation this spring.

The takeaway

Despite the hiccup in his spring training debut, Gore's overall positive outlook and progress from his previous bullpen sessions suggest he is on the right track to solidify his role with the Rangers. As a key offseason acquisition, his ability to adapt and perform will be crucial to the team's success in the upcoming season.