The Texas Rangers' 2026 season ended on a somber note as they lost 6-4 to the Minnesota Twins, thereby missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. The Rangers, who needed a win and an Astros loss to clinch the American League West, fell short on both counts, according to MLB.com. This marks the first time since the Kansas City Royals' post-2015 World Series win that an American League team has missed the postseason for three or more consecutive years after winning a championship.
Injuries have plagued the Rangers, with right-handed pitcher Cal Quantrill placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right lat strain. Quantrill, who had a stellar run with a 1.75 ERA over his last 11 games, will not return this season. The Rangers have recalled Winston Santos from Triple-A Round Rock to fill the void, as reported by Rangers Press Releases.
In other roster updates, designated hitter Joc Pederson was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left wrist fracture, effectively ending his season. Pederson's 26 home runs were second on the team, trailing only Jake Burger's 27, according to Rangers Press Releases. The Rangers have activated infielder/outfielder Michael Helman and right-handed pitcher Peyton Gray from the injured list, while left-handed pitcher Adam Macko returns to the minors.
As the Rangers' season wraps up, the Dallas Cowboys are preparing for their first-ever game in Brazil against the Baltimore Ravens. The Cowboys conducted a walk-around at Maracanã Stadium to assess field conditions, which have been a topic of concern. "It's all a part of the process," said Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer, emphasizing that the field will be ready for play, according to Dallas Cowboys News.
The Cowboys, currently 1-1, are looking to build on their recent win against the Washington Commanders. Quarterback Dak Prescott, who will play his first international game, stressed the importance of being "the aggressors" against the Ravens, as noted by Dallas Cowboys News. The team aims to capitalize on the absence of Ravens' wide receiver Zay Flowers and focus on limiting the impact of Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry.
In community news, Atlético Dallas is making strides in South Dallas through its Good Neighbor Initiative, engaging with local organizations and leaders to support community development. The club's efforts include partnerships with Garland ISD and the North Texas Disability Chamber to promote education and inclusion, as reported by Atlético Dallas News.
With the Rangers' season over and the Cowboys set for an international challenge, Texas sports fans have much to reflect on and anticipate in the coming weeks.