Texas Rangers: 3 Players That Have Overachieved This Season

Matt Bush

It’s been a small sample size, but relief pitcher Matt Bush has stepped up and locked down a late inning role in Arlington. The horrendous performances by Sam Dyson early in the season forced the Rangers to make a move.

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Entering the 2017 season, Bush had just one career save, but he’s beginning to settle into the role. This season Bush has converted two of his three save opportunities and can hopefully give the Rangers a reliable closer to count on.

Every successful team needs a lock down closer in the 9th inning, and the Rangers hope Bush can be the guy. Last season was his rookie campaign, and he surprised the organization with his lights out stuff.

He finished the season 7-2 with a 2.48 ERA and one save with 61 strikeouts. The 2017 campaign has been even better posting a 1.54 ERA in 11 games with 16 strikeouts. It’s hard to imagine Bush becoming a “superstar” closer like Wade Davis, but the Rangers just need him to be consistent.

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Through his first 11 appearances, batters are hitting just .186 off Bush this season. That is the fourth lowest on the team, and he could just keep getting better. The 31-year-old has taken to the 9th inning role, and the Rangers hope that trend continues.