5 reasons the Texas Rangers can win the World Series

3. Midseason acquisitions will play a crucial role 

Josh Hamilton’s body may be breaking down on him, and Cole Hamels is exiting his prime, but these two midseason acquisitions will play a major role in the Texas Rangers’ postseason success.

Hamilton returned to the Rangers at the end of April, following two tumultuous seasons with the Los Angeles Angels. During this time, he struggled with performance, injuries and a drug relapse. The Angels were so desperate to get rid of Hamilton that they are paying him nearly all of the $80 million left on his contract to play elsewhere.

He may be a shell of the player that won the 2010 American League MVP Award, but if Hamilton can make an impact anywhere, it is in Texas. The organization has always been dedicated to providing him with the necessary support system to combat his demons and remain dialed in. As a result, he was named an All-Star every year during his initial stint with the Rangers from 2008 to 2012.

Hamilton has faced injury woes as of late, and his contribution will be limited throughout the remainder of the season. General manager Jon Daniels recently hinted at the possibility that Hamilton will be used strictly as a pinch-hitter, which could be beneficial to the team down the stretch.

While he would prefer to be an everyday player, his ability to perform at the plate is what makes him a valuable asset for the Rangers. Relegating Hamilton to pinch-hitting duties would allow him to focus on getting better at the plate, the only thing that the team really needs from him at this point.

Hamels, on the other hand, has the ability to dominate a game any time he steps on the mound. His 3.69 ERA this season is among the worst performances of his career. Regardless, he has displayed flashes of his old self that was a Cy Young Award candidate just last season.

His no-hitter against the Chicago Cubs earlier this season is proof that Hamels still has the tools to be an elite pitcher. If he can develop more consistency, he will be one of the most dangerous starting pitchers in the postseason.

With the ace of their pitching staff, Yu Darvish, out for the remainder of the season, a resurgence by Hamels is just what the Rangers need.

Next: 2. Lack of home-field advantage will not matter