The Texas Rangers are in the endgame now after game 5 loss to Astros

For the first time this postseason, the Rangers find themselves on the brink of elimination in the playoffs. They played flawless baseball in the Wildcard and ALDS rounds and shocked many baseball fans across the nation. Going into game 6 later tonight, they need to play like they did in the previous two rounds in order to force a game 7. Let's take a look at some of the things that they need to do in game 6 to remain alive in the playoffs.

Texas Rangers Endgame: Hit smart

The Rangers lineup need to be smart at the plate tonight in order to force a game 7. Throughout the series, they seemed undisciplined at the plate and basically will swing at anything pitched to them. They need to force walks and get on base. They also need to play small ball and just swing to get on base without the big hacks. You can win baseball games without trying to slug the ball over the wall.

Texas Rangers Endgame: Pitchers in sync with Jonah Heim

Another thing that the Rangers need to do is have the pitchers be in sync with Jonah Heim tonight. I'm not worried about Nathan Eovaldi being out of sync with Heim. I'm more concerned with the way the relief pitchers have been pitching lately. Now you can't blame Jose LeClerc for the Jose Altuve home run. He is one of the best clutch hitters of this generation in the playoffs. If the pitchers are in sync with Heim tonight, we might see a game 7.

Texas Rangers Endgame: Scratch away at lead while trailing

The Rangers need to immediately scratch away if they ever find themselves trailing at any point in the game. There was a game this series where the Rangers waited to claw back into the game in the 8th inning. Tonight that can't happen with the season on the line. The Rangers need to play like a playoff berth is on the line and make sure they have the lead at the end of the ninth inning tonight.

Whatever happens tonight, be proud of how the Rangers played during the postseason this year. Who would have thought after the season they had last year we would be playing for a chance to play in the World Series this year? I believe the Rangers are way ahead of schedule and this is a good thing. Rangers General Manager Chris Young promised to put a winning product on the field and he did. Whatever happens to the Rangers tonight, I'm proud of them for all their success this season.

More News from Nolan Writin