ARLINGTON — The stage is set for an electrifying three-game series as the Los Angeles Angels (9-6) square off against the Texas Rangers (9-7) at Globe Life Field, starting Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Both teams are vying for supremacy in the American League West, making this matchup a must-watch for baseball fans.
With strong early-season performances, the Angels have established themselves as a formidable force, boasting a 7-5 record on the road. Their momentum comes at a crucial time, especially as they prepare to challenge the reigning World Series champions, the Rangers. However, the Angels have faced some roster changes leading up to this series.
Last week, Los Angeles was dealt a blow when Yoán Moncada was placed on the injured list. This move opened the door for J.D. Davis to be promoted from Triple-A, adding fresh talent to the lineup. Additionally, the team designated left-handed pitcher Jack Dashwood for assignment. Dashwood cleared waivers on April 14 and has been sent to the Salt Lake Bees. The 27-year-old has yet to make his major league debut and has struggled in the minors, holding a 5.45 ERA over five seasons.
As the Angels gear up to take on the Rangers, they will be without catcher Logan O'Hoppe, who is sidelined with a stomach bug. After opting for a day of rest on April 13 and missing the game on April 15, O'Hoppe is expected to return on April 16. In his absence, veteran catcher Travis d'Arnaud will step up behind the plate, bringing his experience to the forefront at a critical juncture in the season.
O'Hoppe started the 2025 campaign on fire, hitting five home runs in his first seven games, but has since cooled off, failing to drive in any runs in his last six contests. His overall batting line stands at .333/.347/.667 with a 1.014 OPS, making him one of the top-performing catchers in the league.
For the Rangers, the situation is equally tense as they prepare for the Angels. Manager Bruce Bochy confirmed that first baseman Jake Burger (illness) and super utility man Josh Smith (bruised thumb) will not be available for the series opener. Designated hitter Joc Pederson is also out, struggling with a dismal batting average of .070 this season.
Despite these setbacks, the Rangers still have key players ready to make an impact. Third baseman Josh Jung and catcher Jonah Heim remain pivotal figures in the lineup. Jung is hitting an impressive .407 with three doubles, a triple, and a home run, while Heim leads the team with seven RBIs.
Adolis García, who has been struggling at the plate, went hitless in his last game but will look to bounce back against Angels starter Yusei Kikuchi. García has a career batting average of .333 against Kikuchi, with two home runs in nine at-bats. This matchup could be crucial for both players, as they seek to regain their form.
Yusei Kikuchi, taking the mound for the Angels, is looking for his first win of the season. With a record of 0-2 and a 5.00 ERA, Kikuchi has been inconsistent but has the potential to turn things around. He last pitched on April 9 against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he allowed four earned runs over six innings.
The three-game series is not just about the two teams' current standings, but also about the history they share. The Rangers have dominated recent encounters, winning five of their last six meetings. The Angels will need to break this trend to assert themselves as serious contenders in the division.
As the series unfolds, the stakes continue to rise. The Angels will aim to capitalize on the Rangers' injuries and regain their footing in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Rangers will look to leverage their home-field advantage to maintain their position at the top of the standings.
With both teams eager to prove their mettle, fans can expect a thrilling matchup filled with drama and intensity. The first game of the series is set to start at 8:05 PM ET on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, and will be broadcast on RSN and FDSW. As the Angels and Rangers clash, baseball enthusiasts will be glued to their screens, eager to see who comes out on top in this vital early-season series.
Looking ahead, the Angels and Rangers will face off again on April 16 and 17, with pitching matchups that promise more excitement. José Soriano will take the mound for the Angels against Patrick Corbin on April 16, while Jack Kochanowicz is slated to face Kumar Rocker on April 17. With each game, the tension will build, making this series one of the highlights of the early MLB season.
