Five Bold Predictions for the Texas Rangers in 2014

2. Texas does better against Oakland in 2014 than they did 2013 but do not do as well against Anaheim.

Oct 17, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers first baseman Prince Fielder (28) singles against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning in game five of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

This may be the year that the Angels finally put it all together. They will not have the extraordinary pressure of active offseasons. After the past two offseasons where the Angels landed all of the big time free agents, other than Prince Fielder, they faced extreme pressure as the favorites to make the World Series. Much to the delight of Rangers’ fans the Angels imploded under the pressure. The Angels should not be slept on in 2014 because they may see Josh Hamilton and Albert Pujols bounce back to form. With Jered Weaver likely getting a full season following his odd elbow injury last year, the Angels will cause more trouble for Texas in 2014.

On the other hand, the Texas Rangers may figure out the Oakland Athletics in 2014. Even though Texas has been good both of the last two years Oakland has featured a good record against Texas during this time span. This year, even though Oakland has improved this offseason, I anticipate the Rangers will solve the puzzle that has been the Oakland Athletics. Not only will Texas improve their record against Oakland, they will take the season series from the A’s.