Rangers Aim for Series Sweep as Mets Face Playoff Pressure
The Texas Rangers are on the brink of a series sweep against the New York Mets as they gear up for the final showdown at Citi Field. Following a dramatic victory on Saturday, the Rangers are looking to extend their winning streak to seven games and solidify their position in the playoff race.
Rangers Rally for Saturday Win
In a compelling display of resilience, the Rangers rallied from a two-run deficit to secure a 5-4 win over the Mets on Saturday. Key contributions came from Joc Pederson, who delivered a sacrifice fly, Rowdy Tellez with a critical ground-rule double, and Wyatt Langford, who drove in a run with a timely single. Pitcher Phil Maton earned the win in relief, while Shawn Armstrong notched his ninth save of the season.
With the victory, the Rangers improved their record to 79-70 and are poised to face the Houston Astros in a crucial three-game series next. This upcoming matchup could have significant implications for the AL West and wild card standings.
Game Day Details
Date: Sunday, September 14
Time: 12:40 p.m. CT
Where: Citi Field, Queens, New York
How to Watch and Listen
Fans can catch the game on various platforms:
TV: Rangers Sports Network, Victory+ (for Rangers), SNY (for Mets), MLB Network (out of market only)
Radio: 105.3 The Fan/1270 KFLC-AM (Spanish for Rangers); Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM, Audacy App 92.3 HD2 (for Mets)
Probable Pitchers
Rangers: Jacob Latz (2-0, 2.91 ERA)
Latz has stepped up significantly in the absence of Nathan Eovaldi, who is sidelined with a rotator cuff strain. The left-handed pitcher has proved to be a reliable option, throwing at least four innings in each of his three starts. His last outing against the Brewers was particularly impressive, where he allowed no runs over 5.2 innings, striking out four batters.
Mets: Nolan McLean (4-1, 1.42 ERA)
McLean, originally drafted as a two-way player, has emerged as a bright spot for the Mets’ pitching staff. He has demonstrated his potential in recent outings, winning two of his last three starts. Despite taking a loss in his last game against Philadelphia, he showcased his skills by limiting the opposition to just one run over 5.1 innings.
Injury Updates for the Rangers
The Rangers are navigating a series of injuries as they approach the final stretch of the season:
Adolis Garcia, OF: On the 10-day IL with a left quad strain, eligible to return soon.
Corey Seager, SS: Recovering from an appendectomy, expected to return for the upcoming home series.
Marcus Semien, 2B: Dealing with a left foot contusion, slated for a hitting session in Houston.
Sam Haggerty, OF: On the 10-day IL, began a rehab assignment recently.
Danny Coulombe, LHP: Expected to return soon from shoulder fatigue.
Nathan Eovaldi, RHP: Likely to miss the remainder of the regular season due to a rotator cuff strain.
Long-term Injuries
The Rangers also face longer-term injuries:
Evan Carter, OF: Out for the remainder of the season due to a wrist fracture.
Josh Sborz, RHP: Rehabbing from shoulder surgery, out for the season.
Tyler Mahle, RHP: Continuing a rehab assignment for shoulder fatigue.
Cody Bradford, LHP: Had season-ending surgery on his elbow.
Jon Gray, P: Moved to the 60-day IL, ending his season.
As the Rangers prepare for their final game against the Mets, the stakes are high, not just for the Texas team vying for a sweep, but for the Mets, who are grappling with the reality of playoff elimination. The intensity of the matchup promises an exciting conclusion to the series.
