Astros Rivals: Three Rangers Players Who Must Step Up Next Season

The Houston Astros know the AL West crown is never handed away lightly, and one of their biggest rivals is working hard to stay in the chase. A recent report from Last Word On Sports highlighted three Texas Rangers players who must improve in 2025 if the defending champs want to stay competitive. For Astros fans in Houston, their progress matters — because every step the Rangers take impacts the path back to the postseason.

The article identifies Josh Jung, Evan Carter, and Nathan Eovaldi as the players under the most pressure heading into next season. Each faces different challenges, but all three could shift the balance of the AL West if they rebound.

Three Rangers to Watch — and Why It Matters for Houston

Josh Jung showed flashes of star-level production last year despite injuries. A full, healthy season from him gives the Rangers an infield anchor capable of driving in runs at key moments. For the Astros, who face Texas 13 times next season, containing Jung will be essential.

Outfielder Evan Carter surged onto the scene during Texas’ title run, but his 2024 season slowed as pitchers adjusted. If he finds his rhythm again, Houston’s pitching staff will need to stay sharp against a player who can hurt them with speed and patience at the plate.

The final name on the list — veteran starter Nathan Eovaldi — may be the biggest X-factor. At his best, he’s a big-game pitcher who rises to the moment. The Astros saw firsthand last year how tough he can be when his command is dialed in. But inconsistency in 2024 raised questions about whether he can still deliver that level of performance.

Why It Matters

Houston enters 2025 with one goal: reclaiming control of the AL West. That path becomes smoother if rival teams stumble. But if these Rangers players bounce back, the Astros will face a tougher climb throughout the season — especially in head-to-head battles that often decide the division.

A motivated Texas roster isn't something Houston can ignore. Keeping an eye on who improves, who regresses, and who transforms heading into 2025 will shape expectations for the Astros’ journey ahead.

This article is a summary of reporting by Last Word On Sports. Read the full story here.