The Texas Rangers have dropped five of their last seven games, but their 16-12 record overall still has them tied with the Los Angeles Angels for the best record in the American League West. Since starting the season 9-1, however, Texas has won just one series, a three-game sweep of the Kansas City Royals. It can at least eke out a tie in a series Monday night with a victory against the Oakland Athletics.
A three-game set against the 13-16 Seattle Mariners, starting Tuesday night at Safeco Field, affords Texas the opportunity to gain some ground in the American League. The schedule stiffens over the weekend, as the Rangers host the AL East-leading New York Yankees. The news on that front isn't all bad, as that three-game set kicks off a nine-game homestand. They'll look to improve upon their 5-4 showing in their last such stay at the Ballpark.
Despite their struggles of late, they've at least gained one game on the Angels, who have lost six of their last 10 games. Overall, the Rangers own the fourth-best record in the American League and the sixth-best in the majors.