5 reasons the Texas Rangers can win the World Series

Aug 23, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Texas Rangers designated hitter Mike Napoli (25) receives congratulations from Rougned Odor (12) after he hits a home run in the eighth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 6

Jul 30, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus (1) collides with New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius (18) during the game at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

4. They are dangerous on the base paths

The Texas Rangers do not hit many home runs, their on-base percentage is average and they struggle to record extra-base hits. Despite this, however, they rank among the best in baseball in run production.

Their .257 team batting average, which ranks ninth in the MLB, certainly helps. But the true difference maker is their ability to make plays happen on the base paths.

The Rangers have stolen 78 bases this season, the third-best in the American League, with speedsters like Elvis Andrus, Delino DeShields and Leonys Martin leading the way. Andrus recently just stole home plate for example. Fangraphs has them ranked as the second-best baserunning team in baseball, and their 81 double plays grounded into is the fewest in the MLB.

Baserunning may be an underrated aspect of the game when compared to hitting performance and pitching dominance. Its importance, however, cannot be overstated. Especially in the postseason.

A timely stolen base or an avoided double play can easily become the difference in the outcome of a playoff matchup, where pitching is at a premium and teams look to scrape runs together however they can. There are few teams, if any, that do this better than the Texas Rangers.

Next: 3. Midseason acquisitions will play a crucial role

Home/MLB