The Texas Rangers got a boost on Friday night with the return of right-hander Tyler Mahle, who made his first appearance since June 10 after recovering from injury. Taking the mound at Globe Life Field against the Miami Marlins, Mahle showed little rust, delivering 4 2/3 scoreless innings before turning the ball over to the bullpen.
For Mahle, the outing was more than just another start — it was the culmination of months of rehab with the hope of contributing to the Rangers’ playoff push. “I wanted to put myself in a position to be able to pitch in the postseason, so that was the main focus,” Mahle said after the game. Though the Rangers eventually fell in extras, his return was a welcome sign for a team fighting to stay alive in the Wild Card race.
Mahle’s crisp performance was marked by sharp command and an ability to keep the Marlins’ lineup in check. He struck out three and allowed just three hits, looking like the steady rotation piece Texas has missed during his absence. While his outing was cut short as a precaution, he left the mound having done exactly what was asked of him.
Despite Mahle’s strong return, the Rangers’ offense struggled to capitalize. Miami’s starter Janson Junk silenced the Texas bats over seven innings, and even Rowdy Tellez’s dramatic, pinch-hit, two-run homer in the 10th inning couldn’t rescue the team from another heartbreaking loss. The Rangers ultimately fell 6-4 in 12 innings, their fifth straight defeat.
The timing of Mahle’s return is crucial, as Texas continues to slip in the American League Wild Card standings. The loss dropped them five games behind Houston for the final spot and 3 1/2 behind Cleveland, leaving their postseason hopes in jeopardy. Still, the sight of Mahle healthy again provided a silver lining in what has otherwise been a tough stretch.
Manager Bruce Bochy praised Mahle’s outing and noted how important it is to have him back in the mix. While the Rangers’ offense remains inconsistent, Mahle’s presence in the rotation could prove valuable if the team can turn things around. For now, Texas will look to regroup as their playoff chances hang in the balance, with Mahle ready to help however he can.
