The Rangers’ starting pitching situation for the first half of the season is less than ideal due to the absence of key pitchers such as Jacob deGrom, Max Scherzer, and Tyler Mahle until after the All-Star Break. The uncertainty of their availability in the second half further complicates matters. Additionally, the team has not re-signed Jordan Montgomery during the off-season, leaving a void in the rotation. Given these challenges, the decision for the Opening Day starter becomes more straightforward.
Nathan Eovaldi, known as “Big Game” Eovaldi, emerges as the logical choice to kick off the 2024 season for the defending champions. Despite the setbacks in the starting rotation, Eovaldi stands out as the best option outside of the exceptional talent of Jacob deGrom. Eovaldi played a crucial role in the Rangers’ success last year, earning the admiration of fans with his ability to pitch deep into games and handle pressure situations. His impressive performance earned him the nickname “Big Game.”
Before his mid-season injury, Eovaldi showcased outstanding form with a 2.69 ERA, consistently pitching five innings or more in every start. Unfortunately, he returned prematurely from his injury, impacting the team’s performance during his absence. Despite some rough starts towards the end of the regular season, where he was still recovering, Eovaldi finished with a 3.63 ERA. It is acknowledged that he was not at full strength during those outings, and his efforts to contribute to the team are commendable.
Eovaldi’s resilience became evident in the playoffs, especially in the World Series. Apart from Game 1, he consistently pitched six innings or more, allowing three or fewer runs in each outing. His remarkable postseason performance, with five wins in six starts, played a pivotal role in securing the Rangers’ World Series title. Eovaldi lived up to his “Big Game” nickname, reminiscent of his impactful role in the Red Sox’s 2018 World Series run.
The upcoming Opening Day holds added significance as the Texas Rangers secured the ESPN prime-time slot, attracting a large national audience. Facing the Chicago Cubs in their title defense, the Rangers need a pitcher who excels under pressure. Nathan Eovaldi fits the bill perfectly, given his track record of stepping up when the lights are brightest. As the clear choice for Opening Day starter, Eovaldi’s performance is eagerly anticipated, with hopes of initiating the 2024 season with a win for the Rangers.
Leave a Reply