San Antonio native Cody Freeman (left) hit his first major league home run on Friday, while playing the Cleveland Guardians at Globe Life Field. Photo: Tim Heitman/Getty Images
The Texas Rangers will start next season on the road.
Why it matters: The Rangers are solidly in the middle of the AL West standings and unlikely to be in the playoff hunt this year.
So, might as well plan for next year.
Driving the news: The MLB released the 2026 regular-season schedule yesterday, and the Rangers start the season March 26 in Philadelphia. It's the third time in a decade the team will start the season on the road.
The home opener is April 3 against the Cincinnati Reds.
The intrigue: The Rangers will have off days in the middle of two series in Arlington next year because of the FIFA World Cup.
The team will have a day off June 17 after the first two of three games against Minnesota and will be off July 3 after the first of three games against Detroit.
There are soccer matches then at neighboring AT&T Stadium.
Friction point: The MLB is hosting another regional "Rivalry Weekend" from May 15-17. The Rangers will play their nemesis in Houston.
The Yankees will be in Queens and the Cubs will travel to the South Side.
