Many fans expected the Texas Rangers to rebound offensively this season and resemble the potent lineup that powered them to their first World Series title in 2023. Early on, that hope appeared justified. Even as the team notched some early victories, though, their offense never quite clicked. Those issues have only grown more pronounced during a 2-7 skid, prompting major changes.
On Sunday, the Rangers parted ways with offensive coordinator Donnie Ecker, opting for a new direction at the plate. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, former three-time All-Star second baseman Bret Boone will take over as hitting coach. Boone, the brother of Yankees manager Aaron Boone, brings not only a strong MLB résumé but also a close connection to Rangers manager Bruce Bochy.
“Bochy has known Boone for decades,” Nightengale noted on X, adding that Boone is also a longtime friend of Phil Nevin—a 2001 All-Star and ex-Angels manager—who once played for Bochy.
The Rangers are in need of a serious spark. Sitting at 17-18, they rank 27th in OPS (.644) and 25th in both batting average (.228) and slugging (.359). With the offense sputtering, a fresh perspective is crucial. While this will be Boone’s first time on a major league coaching staff, his knowledge of hitting is extensive.
