Another September, another collapse for the Texas Rangers. Unlike last year’s team, which had built up a big enough lead in the first five months to make the playoffs as a wild card, the 2013 version is on life support after seven consecutive losses.
Entering play on Tuesday, the Rangers (81-68) have the smallest of edges over the Cleveland Indians (81-69) because the latter has played one more game. Baltimore (79-70), Kansas City (79-71) and New York (79-71) are also hot on their heels.
This is a far cry from where the Rangers were on Aug. 31. After defeating Minnesota 2-1, Texas was 79-56 with a two-game lead over Oakland in the American League West.
A 2-12 stretch in the 14 games since the end of August has all but eliminated the Rangers from the division race as Oakland has built up a 6.5-game lead.
Considering the amount of talent on the Rangers roster, both in 2012 and 2013, this is a sign of bigger problems that will need to be addressed in the offseason. But for now, we wondered where this year’s collapse ranks on the list of worst September choke jobs ever.
These are strictly one man’s opinion, so feel free to interject your own as fandom and loyalty will certainly play a role in what you think.
Note: All records courtesy of Baseball Reference unless otherwise noted.