Three Texas Rangers Players that will Make or Break this Season

Player 2: Nathan Eovaldi

Another player who could make or break the season is Eovaldi. The 2023 all-star has exceeded expectations this season. In March, many questioned whether he would be able to still be the top of the rotation pitcher he has been throughout his career?

Yet, he is having one of the best seasons this year. Among AL starting pitchers, he has the lowest ERA with 2.69. He is also tied for the second most wins and has the second-highest win-loss percentage.

The last time he had a hot start was in 2021 with the Boston Red Sox. That season, he went 11-9 and played a critical role in Boston's postseason push. He struck out eight batters in the wildcard game while giving up one run in five innings.

He is on pace to beat his 2021 start, but injuries have derailed him at least for the moment. Last month, the team placed him on the 15-day injury list with a right forearm strain. The team's ACE hasn't pitched in a game since July 18th.

However, he seems to be making progress as of late. On Tuesday, Eovaldi simulated warming up and then throwing two innings. The next step would potentially be facing live batters as the team tries to ramp him up.

The Rangers need a healthy Eovaldi if they are to make noise in the postseason. Pairing him next to
Scherzer would give the team a perfect one-two punch.