There was a lot of talk about how good the Texas Rangers could be heading into the 2023 season. The majority of the discussion centred on the expensive bats or the redesigned beginning pitching rotation.
However, a month into the season, the bullpen has stood out the most, but bullpen coach Brett Hayes isn't surprised by their strong start.
The Rangers' bullpen went 37-for-67 in save opportunities, had a 3.72 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 8.7 strikeouts per nine innings, and limited hitters to a.228 average last season.
With eight.53 strikeouts per nine innings, a 2.84 ERA, a 1.11 WHIP, a two-for-three save percentage, and a.201 average against, the Rangers bullpen has been dominant until Friday.
The Rangers rank in the top six among bullpens in ERA, opponent batting average and WHIP. So what changed? Not much according to Hayes, who has been the bullpen coach since 2022.
There is no change in attitude, according to Hayes.Taylor Hearn, a reliever who was just optioned to the minors, concurred with Hayes' evaluation.
"We've had the same mentality going into this year with all the guys that were in the bullpen last year," he added. "Everyone has been accepting"
The Rangers' rotation of roles in the bullpen and open-mindedness go hand in hand.
Will Smith may close depending on the matchups, even if José Leclerc is the primary closer, in some games. The players think the staff does a wonderful job of outlining the rationale behind their bullpen choices.
Their success is due to the absence of egos.