Rangers Players Reflect on Struggles and Team Dynamics

ARLINGTON, Texas — Texas Rangers first baseman Jake Burger is eager to discuss his recent return from Triple-A and his journey to overcome a rough start this season. In a conversation reflecting on his struggles, he emphasized the importance of being true to himself.

“Getting back to who I am is the biggest thing,” Burger said. “It’s about being aggressive and having fun. That’s what baseball is all about.”

Speaking about April’s challenges, Burger recalled facing similar struggles last season. “It’s just part of the game,” he explained, referring to the difficulty of maintaining mechanics while competing effectively. “The season is long, and you just keep moving on; you can’t dwell on the past.”

Burgers’ frustrations were not just on an individual level; adjusting to new team dynamics also played a role. “You want to prove yourself to a new fan base and organization,” he said. “That adds pressure.”

He further highlighted the positive impacts of new hitting coach Bret Boone, stating, “He simplifies things and helps me remember my strengths.” Their discussions are geared toward focusing on his natural swing rather than forcing results.

The first baseman also shared his impression of the intense Rangers-Astros rivalry. “That 1-0 game felt like a playoff atmosphere,” Burger reported, expressing his excitement for more high-stakes games.

Meanwhile, third baseman Josh Jung is finding his rhythm at the plate. In a recent game against the Colorado Rockies, he not only nailed a couple of home runs but also showed a notable change in his approach by taking walks when needed, emphasizing teamwork over individual acclaim.

“You can get caught in swing mode,” Jung noted, after making a conscious decision to focus on his approach rather than chasing home runs. His mind shift contributed to a successful offensive night for the Rangers.

The Rangers now prepare for their upcoming games against the New York Yankees following a recent mixed result against the Houston Astros. Manager Bruce Bochy has expressed optimism about the team’s potential with players like deGrom performing well on the mound this season.

As the season progresses, both Burger and Jung aim to continue honing their skills and contributing to the club’s success.