ARLINGTON — The Texas Rangers remain competitive in the American League West as they reached the midway point of the season with a 45-45 record. After briefly holding first place last week, the team’s position has fluctuated amid recent inconsistent performances and interruptions due to the World Cup.

The Rangers returned to Globe Life Field on Tuesday and secured an 8-3 victory over the Los Angeles Angels, highlighted by a five-run rally in the eighth inning. This offensive outburst contrasted with the team’s overall challenges at the plate, including a season-long on-base percentage below .300 at home. The win narrowed their gap to just half a game behind the division-leading Seattle Mariners.

Earlier in the week, Texas had fallen twice to the Detroit Tigers over the weekend before a pair of off days on Friday and Monday related to World Cup activities in the area. Those results contributed to the team’s slipping back to an even .500 win-loss record after 90 games, reflecting an uneven season following a promising start.

Among the Rangers’ contributors is infielder Nicky Lopez, who was previously released by the Chicago Cubs before joining Texas. Lopez has provided a spark with a .324 batting average, offering some offensive stability amid the broader team struggles.

While the Rangers’ position near the top of the AL West standings suggests potential, the team continues to be characterized by streaky performance and inconsistency. With several months still to play, Texas will aim to build on its bursts of productivity and remain a contender in a competitive division.