Rangers first-half pitching star's return might be too little, too late

By far the most surprising player for the Texas Rangers in the first half of 2025 was Tyler Mahle. He not only led the club in terms of pitching success, but was among the best in the league.

The Rangers rotation has not missed a step without Mahle but with how good he was pitching prior to injury, he can certainly elevate this team. With a season ending injury to Nathan Eovaldi, there is a slot to be filled. The Rangers front office has confirmed his next outing will be in the big leagues.

As part of his recovery from a shoulder injury, he was sent to Triple-A Round Rock on a rehab assignment to ramp up for his return. His most recent outing saw him go four productive innings with 50+ pitches thrown.

What role will Tyler Mahle fill for the Texas Rangers?

Jacob Latz has been sensational this season for the Rangers but has been moved to the rotation. There is no exact date just yet for Mahle's return to a mound or in what capacity but his old spot as the long reliever/bulk innings guy is wide open.

The Rangers are in do or die territory with no room to breathe. The entire AL West is on a hot streak making the stress potentially too much for the Rangers.

If the Rangers can save their taxed bullpen by putting Mahle in there in tough long spots, major issues can be avoided. With the Silver Boot series essentially being for a playoff spot, they need as many healthy arms as possible. A return would likely be set

When will he make his next appearance?

A return would likely be set for the following series against Miami. The Marlins have been no pushover this season that will likely prove to be tougher than expected.

Taking an on fire Latz out of the rotation likely won't be the choice. Utilitzing Mahle in his role could be easiest on the current team that has been flying up the postseason odds board lately. Comfortability may aid Bochy's decision but no firm decision has been made yet.

The only issue that might pop up in this involves how little Mahle has come out of the bullpen. He has only logged one bullpen outing and it was following a Wade Miley injury where they needed somebody to eat some innings in a weird 60 game season.

If Mahle is to return to the rotation rather than the bullpen, Friday September 19th is likely the spot for him to start. The probable for now is Patrick Corbin who can come out of the bullpen if needed that day.

Adding another weapon to the strength of this team will lead to questions but not problems. Rangers players and fans are looking forward to the return of the first half hero.