5 MLB teams that can make surprise run in season’s second half

Texas Rangers

The Mariners currently lead the AL West and the Astros are surging, but the division remains wide open and Texas is just five games off the division lead despite entering the All-Star break four games under .500. There haven’t been a ton of positives for the Rangers thus far in 2024, but with a veteran group that still possesses a lot of talent, the reigning World Series champs have a chance to make another second-half run. That likely begins with their solid starting rotation which has welcomed Max Scherzer back to the mix alongside Nathan Eovaldi. All-Star closer Kirby Yates has also been one of the better relievers in baseball, but more consistency from the bullpen overall would help.

Consistency will also be a theme for the Rangers’ bats going forward as their lineup has surprisingly struggled overall. Still, it’s hard to bet against the power of Marcus Semien, Corey Seager and Adolis Garcia, and with the emergence of Josh Smith and Wyatt Langford, the Rangers have the pieces in place to get hot offensively. The rest of July will be telling and may also decide if Texas chases another ring or decides to do a soft sell. A tough series against the Orioles awaits out of the All-Star break, but taking care of business against the White Sox and Blue Jays after could get the Rangers back to .500. A three-game series with the Astros shortly after will also be crucial, as will seven remaining games against the Mariners.