MLB predictions Photo by Ben Ludeman/Texas Rangers/Getty Images)
This year’s MLB season won’t be easy to predict, though the offseason has given some idea as to what teams could be surprise postseason contenders.
With free agency all but wrapped up in terms of available top-tier talent on the board, we are starting to get an authentic feel for where teams stand in their respective divisions. Though most of last season’s playoff-caliber squads remain at the top, there are a plethora of newcomers that have improved across the board and now have the chance to compete in 2023.
With the league switching to a formatted schedule for every team to play each other more often, the competition should be dispersed more evenly. Therefore, for many teams, this offseason wasn’t about adding one star to their roster, but more depth at multiple positions across the board.
Let’s dive right in and take a look at 3 dark horse postseason team for the upcoming MLB season.
MLB predictions – Texas Rangers make the playoffs
I 2022, Texas was just 22nd overall in team ERA, with a mark of 4.22. With the addition of Jacob deGrom this offseason, Texas catapulted themselves up the projected win total board. Essentially, deGrom’s name is synonymous with greatness, and should he stay healthy, he provides a jolt in the standings to any team he is a part of.
Nathan Eovaldi was another key starter added to the rotation this winter. Should Martin Perez pick up where he left off in 2022, there is little doubt that the Rangers’ rotation is set up for success.
Ranking 12th with 4.36 runs per game, Texas clicking with consistency on offense is imperative. With a lineup that currently boasts Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, Adolis Garcia, and Nathaniel Lowe, much is left to be desired thereafter. To take another step forward, the Rangers will need to add another bat, either from those remaining in free agency or via trade.
Leddy Tavares is an exciting piece, but the club could use another lefty outfielder. David Peralta and Tyler Naquin are all still available and could help with depth in the second half of the lineup. Nevertheless, the substantial additions to the starting rotation have the Rangers in a position to surprise people this year.