Who's the Texas Rangers' Closer? A Closer Look
The Texas Rangers, a Major League Baseball team based in Arlington, Texas, have had a long history of talented closers. Over the years, many pitchers have stepped up to the challenge of securing victories for the Rangers. Let's take a look at some of the most notable closers in Rangers history.
The Early Years: Jeff Russell and John Wetteland
In the early 1990s, Jeff Russell was the go-to closer for the Rangers. He appeared in 71 games in 1991, saving 36 of them. Russell was a reliable pitcher who helped the Rangers reach the postseason in 1991 and 1992.
In 1993, John Wetteland took over the closer role from Russell. Wetteland was a dominant force in the late innings, saving 37 games in 1993 and 40 games in 1994. He was also named the American League Rookie of the Year in 1992.
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The Ugueth Urbina Era
From 2003 to 2006, Ugueth Urbina was one of the best closers in baseball. He saved 144 games in four seasons with the Rangers, including a career-high 45 saves in 2005. Urbina was known for his devastating slider, which he used to strike out hitters at a high rate.
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| Who Is The Texas Rangers Closer |
The Rise of Joe Nathan
In 2007, the Rangers acquired Joe Nathan from the Minnesota Twins. Nathan quickly established himself as one of the best closers in baseball. He saved 37 games in his first season with the Rangers and 43 games in 2008. Nathan's slider was as good as Urbina's, and he was also a reliable ground ball pitcher.
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The Neftali Feliz Era
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In 2010, Neftali Feliz emerged as the Rangers' closer. Feliz was a young and talented pitcher who had a fastball that touched 100 mph. He saved 40 games in 2010 and 42 games in 2011. Feliz was a key member of the Rangers' World Series teams in 2010 and 2011.
Recent Closers: Tanner Bell and Jonathan Hern�ndez
In recent years, the Rangers have used a variety of pitchers in the closer role. Tanner Bell had a solid season as the closer in 2022, saving 23 games. Jonathan Hern�ndez has also seen time as the closer, and he has the potential to be a dominant late-inning pitcher.
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So, who is the Texas Rangers' closer?
As you can see, the Texas Rangers have had a long history of talented closers. There is no one definitive answer to the question of who is the best closer in Rangers history. It depends on a variety of factors, such as the era in which the pitcher played and the specific statistics that are being considered.
However, one thing is for sure: the Rangers have a tradition of excellence in the closer role. And with pitchers like Jonathan Hern�ndez on the rise, the future looks bright for the Rangers' bullpen.
In addition to the closers mentioned above, here are a few other notable pitchers who have seen time in the closer role for the Rangers:
- Doug Jones
- Lee Smith
- Mark Wohlers
- Darren Oliver
- Keone Kela
Who do you think is the best closer in Texas Rangers history? Let us know in the comments below!
Please note that this is just a short overview of the Texas Rangers' closer history. There are many other closers who have contributed to the team's success over the years.
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