Texas Rangers Tickets

In the heart of Texas, where the passion for sports runs as deep as the Rio Grande, the Texas Rangers stand as a symbol of unity, endurance, and timeless American spirit. Since their inception in 1972, the Rangers have embodied the hard-hitting, never-say-die attitude synonymous with the Lone Star State, cultivating a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and a fervent fan base.

This is a journey into the vibrant saga of the Texas Rangers baseball team, exploring their triumphs, tribulations, and the indomitable spirit that has seen them conquer both home plate and hearts. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the game, strap in for a compelling exploration of Texas-sized baseball legacy.

The Texas Rangers History

The Texas Rangers, one of Major League Baseball's iconic franchises, boast a storied past that mirrors the energy, spirit, and resilience of the Lone Star State. Over the course of their history, they've crafted a rich tapestry of memorable moments, triumphs, and tribulations, etching their place in the annals of American baseball.

Background

In the annals of American baseball, the Texas Rangers hold a special place. The team's roots can be traced back to the 1961 expansion of the American League, which saw the establishment of the Washington Senators as a new franchise in the nation's capital.

The Washington Senators Era

For a decade, from 1961 to 1971, the team played as the Washington Senators. However, despite an auspicious start that saw them claim a winning record in their inaugural season, the team struggled to maintain consistency, and their performance waned over the subsequent years.

Formation of the Texas Rangers

In 1971, after enduring a string of disappointing seasons and dwindling attendances, the Senators were sold to an investment group led by Bob Short. Short decided to move the team to Arlington, Texas, for the 1972 season, citing the city's passion for baseball, central location, and potential for growth.

After the move was approved by the league, the team was renamed as the Texas Rangers, in honor of the state's legendary law enforcement agency. This marked the beginning of a new era in baseball, one where the spirit and resilience of Texas were embodied in its very own Major League Baseball team.

Early Years and Struggles

In the Rangers' initial years, they faced several challenges. Despite having seasoned players like Toby Harrah and Jim Sundberg, the team found it tough to gain a foothold in the highly competitive American League. The 1970s and early 1980s saw the Rangers with more down seasons than up, but the franchise's fortunes were about to change.

The Turning Point: 1990s to Early 2000s

Under the ownership of George W. Bush and later Tom Hicks, the Rangers began to see success in the 1990s. The team clinched three American League West division titles in 1996, 1998, and 1999, largely thanks to the exceptional play of individuals like Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez, Juan Gonzalez, and Rafael Palmeiro. However, a World Series appearance remained elusive during this period.

The Golden Era: 2010s

The 2010s heralded the most successful period in Texas Rangers history to date. Led by manager Ron Washington and a roster brimming with talent including Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, and Adrian Beltre, the Rangers captured back-to-back American League Pennants in 2010 and 2011, marking their first World Series appearances.

Though the team fell short of clinching a World Series title, losing to the San Francisco Giants in 2010 and the St. Louis Cardinals in a heart-wrenching seven-game series in 2011, these seasons marked the Rangers' rise as a dominant force in American baseball.

The Resilient Spirit

Through every high and low, the Texas Rangers have showcased a resilient spirit. The team’s rise to the top echelons of Major League Baseball serves as a testament to their grit, determination, and never-say-die attitude, mirroring the qualities of the state they so proudly represent. As the Rangers look to the future, the legacy of their past successes will continue to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.

The 7 Most Unforgettable Moments in Texas Rangers

The Inception: 1972

The formation of the Texas Rangers franchise in 1972 is certainly one of the most memorable moments in the team's history. The transition from the Washington Senators to the Texas Rangers marked the beginning of a new era in Major League Baseball and brought the big leagues to the heart of Texas for the first time.

First Winning Season: 1974

Two years after their inception, the Rangers achieved their first winning season under manager Billy Martin. This was a significant milestone for the fledgling franchise, setting the stage for future success and instilling a newfound belief in the team.

Nolan Ryan's 5,000th Strikeout: 1989

Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan's 5,000th career strikeout in 1989 is an unforgettable moment in Rangers history. Ryan, a Texan himself, reached this milestone in a Rangers uniform against Rickey Henderson of the Oakland Athletics, further cementing his place as one of the greatest pitchers in the history of the game.

Winning the First Division Title: 1996

In 1996, the Rangers clinched their first-ever division title. The team, led by Johnny Oates and bolstered by the likes of Ivan Rodriguez, Juan Gonzalez, and Will Clark, marked their place in history by winning the American League West division, cementing themselves as a competitive force in the American League.

Alex Rodriguez's MVP Season: 2003

In 2003, shortstop Alex Rodriguez had one of the most memorable individual seasons in Rangers history. A-Rod hit .298 with 47 home runs and 118 RBI, winning the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award - a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the team.

Advancing to the World Series: 2010 and 2011

In 2010 and 2011, the Texas Rangers won back-to-back American League Pennants, securing their place in the World Series for the first time in franchise history. Although they fell short of winning the ultimate prize both times, these playoff runs stand as the pinnacle of the team's success to date.

Adrian Beltre's 3,000th Hit: 2017

Adrian Beltre, one of the best third basemen in MLB history, recorded his 3,000th career hit in a Rangers uniform in 2017. This milestone, achieved in a game against the Baltimore Orioles, further solidified Beltre's legacy and highlighted his integral role in the Rangers' successes.

7 Greatest Players in Texas Rangers History

Nolan Ryan

Arguably the greatest pitcher to ever don a Rangers uniform, Nolan Ryan is a baseball legend. Ryan, who pitched for the Rangers from 1989 to 1993, was a fireballer who racked up an impressive 5,714 strikeouts over his career, a record that still stands. During his tenure with the Rangers, Ryan achieved two of his record seven no-hitters.

Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez

One of the finest catchers in baseball history, Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Rangers. Known for his impeccable defensive skills and potent batting prowess, Rodriguez won 13 Gold Glove Awards and was a 14-time All-Star. He was integral to the Rangers' success in the 1990s.

Adrian Beltre

Adrian Beltre, a dominant third baseman, was a key player for the Rangers from 2011 to 2018. Beltre was known for his excellent fielding skills and powerful hitting. He achieved his 3,000th career hit in a Rangers uniform in 2017, further cementing his legacy as one of the franchise's greatest players.

Michael Young

Michael Young, the all-time hits leader for the Texas Rangers, was a stalwart for the team from 2000 to 2012. Young was a versatile player, capable of playing several infield positions, and he consistently delivered at the plate. He played a crucial role in the Rangers' back-to-back World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011.

Josh Hamilton

Josh Hamilton's time with the Rangers, though marked by personal struggles, featured some of the highest peaks in team history. Hamilton, a five-time All-Star and the 2010 American League MVP, was a major factor in the Rangers' back-to-back World Series runs.

Rafael Palmeiro

Rafael Palmeiro was one of the most consistent offensive performers in Rangers history. During his two stints with the team (1989-1993 and 1999-2003), Palmeiro proved a reliable source of power and production, eclipsing the 500 home run and 3,000 hit milestones over his career.

Juan Gonzalez

Juan "Igor" Gonzalez was one of the most feared sluggers in baseball during his time with the Rangers. Gonzalez, who spent 11 of his 17 seasons in Texas, won two American League MVP awards (1996 and 1998) and was instrumental in helping the Rangers to their first-ever playoff appearances.

Texas Rangers Rivalries

Throughout their history, the Texas Rangers have developed rivalries with several teams. Here are three of the most significant:

Houston Astros: The Lone Star Series

The rivalry between the Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros, known as the "Lone Star Series," is one of the most intense in Major League Baseball. It is fueled by the geographical proximity and cultural similarities of the two teams. When the Astros moved to the American League West in 2013, the rivalry took on an even greater significance as the teams began to compete directly for the division title. The Silver Boot, a trophy awarded to the winner of the season series between the two teams, has been a tradition since 2001.

Toronto Blue Jays

The rivalry between the Texas Rangers and the Toronto Blue Jays escalated rapidly following two highly contested American League Division Series (ALDS) in 2015 and 2016. The intense five-game 2015 ALDS, which the Blue Jays won, featured a particularly memorable and contentious game (Game 5) marked by unusual plays and heated moments. This set the stage for an ongoing feud between the teams that added extra tension to their meetings in the following seasons.

New York Yankees

While this rivalry isn't based on geographical proximity or divisional competition, the Yankees have often been a roadblock in the Rangers' postseason aspirations. The Yankees have beaten the Rangers in every postseason meeting between the two teams, including the American League Division Series in 1996, 1998, and 1999. These losses, especially the 1996 series where the Rangers were leading until the Yankees made a dramatic comeback, have stoked feelings of rivalry among players and fans.

It's worth noting that these rivalries, while intense, reflect the passion and commitment of both the players on the field and the fans in the stands. They add an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the baseball season, contributing to the rich tapestry of the sport.

Home of the Texas Rangers - The Globe Life Field 

Introduction

Globe Life Field, the home of the Texas Rangers, represents a new generation of ballparks in Major League Baseball. Boasting a state-of-the-art design, modern amenities, and a uniquely Texan charm, the stadium ushers in an exciting era for Rangers fans and the broader Arlington community.

Construction and Opening

Construction on Globe Life Field began in September 2017, with the stadium officially opening its doors for the 2020 MLB season. The project, a collaboration between the Rangers and the city of Arlington, came with a price tag of approximately $1.2 billion. Its design and construction involved some of the leading names in the industry, including architectural firm HKS and Manhattan Construction Company.

Features of Globe Life Field

One of the key features of Globe Life Field is its retractable roof, a first for a Rangers home stadium. This allows games to be played in comfort, regardless of the Texas heat or inclement weather. The stadium also incorporates a more intimate seating arrangement to bring fans closer to the action, with a total capacity of approximately 40,300 for baseball games.

Inside, Globe Life Field offers a range of modern amenities, including a wide variety of dining options, expansive concourses, and family-friendly entertainment zones. The design also pays homage to the Rangers' history, with touches such as the repurposing of the home plate from the team's previous stadium, Globe Life Park.

Globe Life Field's Impact

Globe Life Field has been transformative not just for the Texas Rangers, but for the city of Arlington as well. Besides hosting baseball games, the multi-purpose facility serves as a venue for concerts, football games, and other major events, making it a year-round destination. It has spurred further development in the surrounding area, including new dining, retail, and entertainment spaces, further contributing to Arlington's growth and vibrancy.

Globe Life Field is more than just a stadium - it's a testament to the spirit of innovation and the love of baseball that runs deep in the heart of Texas. As the Texas Rangers look towards the future, Globe Life Field stands ready to create new memories and host thrilling moments in the years to come.

Parking at the Globe Life Field

Parking at Globe Life Field is designed to be accessible and convenient for visitors. The stadium's surrounding area is home to numerous parking lots that can accommodate thousands of vehicles, making it relatively easy for fans to find a spot on game days or during special events.

General Parking

For most games and events, parking can be purchased in advance or on the day of the event, although it's often recommended to buy your parking pass ahead of time to ensure a smooth entry. Parking lots usually open three hours prior to the start of an event, and prices can vary depending on the lot's proximity to the stadium and the type of event.

Accessible Parking

Globe Life Field is committed to accommodating all visitoas, including those with disabilities. Accessible parking spaces are available in various lots surrounding the stadium. These are reserved for vehicles displaying a current state-issued disability placard or license plate.

VIP Parking

For visitors who desire an elevated experience, VIP parking options are also available. These premium spots are typically located closest to the stadium, offering the most convenient access to the venue.

Tailgating

For fans who enjoy the pre-game tradition of tailgating, certain parking lots at Globe Life Field permit this activity. Rules and restrictions on tailgating are usually outlined by the Texas Rangers and the stadium management to ensure a safe and fun experience for everyone.

In conclusion, whether you're a season ticket holder or a first-time visitor, you'll find a range of parking options to meet your needs at Globe Life Field. However, given the popularity of games and events, it's always a good idea to arrive early and, if possible, purchase your parking pass in advance. Always check the Texas Rangers' official website or contact the Globe Life Field's administration for the most accurate and up-to-date information.