World Series Review

Wednesday night marked a fitting culmination for the Texas Rangers as they clinched their first-ever World Series title on the road. The Rangers’ undefeated streak in away games during the postseason persisted, making it clear that Game 5 of the World Series would not be the point of cessation.

The Arizona Diamondbacks bore witness to the Rangers’ dominance as they succumbed to a resounding 5-0 defeat, sealing an extraordinary postseason journey for Texas. Beyond merely securing their inaugural franchise title, the Rangers achieved a feat unprecedented in Major League Baseball history — winning 11 consecutive postseason games.

From traversing Tampa Bay to conquering Baltimore, Houston, and finally Arizona, the Rangers exhibited unparalleled prowess on fields far removed from the familiar confines of Globe Life Field in Arlington. Their remarkable accomplishment eclipsed the previous record of nine consecutive postseason road victories held jointly by the 1996-97 and 1937-42 New York Yankees, who spread their streaks across multiple seasons.

While the inquiry into the reasons behind this exceptional performance abounds, a common thread emerges — the unity and camaraderie among the Rangers. These players perceive themselves as a tightly-knit group, particularly when navigating the challenges presented on the road. The road, it seems, leaves little room for concealment, fostering an environment where the team bonds more deeply.

One recurring theme in discussions surrounding the Rangers’ success is their penchant for camaraderie. Regardless of the diverse answers offered, a consistent narrative emerges — these Rangers view themselves as a cohesive unit, finding solace in each other’s company. This sentiment is aptly captured by Rangers pitcher Will Smith, who emphasizes the team’s inclination towards shared experiences, be it team dinners or card games in someone’s room. The road becomes a place where the team remains in constant proximity, especially in the absence of their families, creating a sense of togetherness that transcends the typical dynamics of a baseball team.

In addition to their historic streak, the Rangers now boast the highest playoff winning percentage on the road among franchises with at least 25 playoff games. This statistic further solidifies their status as a force to be reckoned with outside their home turf, underlining the significance of their cohesive approach to away games.

As the Rangers revel in their newfound glory, the impact of their unprecedented road success extends beyond the trophy cabinet. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of unity and shared experiences in the realm of professional sports. The Rangers’ triumph underscores that, in the face of adversity and the challenges posed by the road, a team’s ability to forge strong bonds can be the catalyst for unprecedented success.