Texas Rangers

Quick Facts

  • Founded: 1961

  • Original Name/City: Washington Senators (Second Incarnation)

  • Current Ballpark: Globe Life Field

  • World Series Titles: 1 (2023)

A History of the Texas Rangers

The franchise now known as the Texas Rangers began in 1961 as the second version of the Washington Senators, an expansion team created to replace the original Senators, who had moved to Minnesota. After 11 seasons in the nation's capital, the team relocated to Arlington, Texas, in 1972, rebranding as the Rangers.

The early years in Texas were highlighted by the presence of legendary pitcher Nolan Ryan, who recorded his 5,000th strikeout and threw two of his record seven no-hitters in a Rangers uniform.

The franchise first found sustained success in the late 1990s, winning three division titles with a powerful lineup of stars like Iván "Pudge" Rodríguez and Juan González. However, they failed to win a single postseason series during this period. The team's first true golden era came in 2010 and 2011, when they won back-to-back American League pennants.

These trips to the World Series ended in heartbreak, particularly in 2011, when they were twice just one strike away from a championship in Game 6 against the St. Louis Cardinals, before ultimately losing the series.

After years of rebuilding, the franchise's ultimate goal was finally achieved in 2023. Moving into their new ballpark, Globe Life Field, in 2020, the Rangers constructed a championship roster through aggressive free-agent signings and key trades. As a Wild Card team, they went on a remarkable run, going a perfect 11-0 on the road in the postseason. They defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks to capture the first World Series title in the franchise's 63-year history, finally bringing a championship to Arlington.

Franchise Timeline

  • 1961: Founded as the Washington Senators expansion team.

  • 1972: Relocated to Arlington, renamed the Texas Rangers.

  • 2010: Made their first World Series appearance.

  • 2011: Made their second consecutive World Series appearance.

  • 2020: Moved into their current ballpark, Globe Life Field.

  • 2023: Won their first World Series.

Legendary Players

Nolan Ryan (1989-1993)

  • Although he joined the Rangers at age 42, Ryan's five seasons in Texas were iconic. He threw two no-hitters, recorded his 5,000th strikeout, and created one of baseball's most memorable moments when he fought Robin Ventura. He gave the franchise a legendary identity.

Iván Rodríguez (1991-2002, 2009)

  • "Pudge" redefined the catcher position with his cannon arm and surprising offensive ability. The 1999 AL MVP, he won an incredible 10 consecutive Gold Gloves with the Rangers and is widely considered one of the greatest defensive catchers of all time.

Adrián Beltré (2011-2018)

  • Beloved for his elite talent and playful personality, Beltré was the heart and soul of the Rangers for eight seasons. The Hall of Fame third baseman was a defensive wizard and a powerful hitter, recording his 3,000th career hit in a Rangers uniform. His on-field antics, especially his hatred of anyone touching his head, made him a fan favorite.

Corey Seager (2022-Present)

  • While his tenure is young, Seager's impact is historic. He was the offensive engine and leader of the 2023 championship team, winning the World Series MVP award for his incredible performance. He joins an elite club of players to win the award in both leagues.