Look, we didn’t anticipate this either. Of all the potential World Series matchups, a clash between the 90-win Texas Rangers and the 84-win Arizona Diamondbacks wasn’t exactly at the top of our wish list. It’s already being criticized as a battle of indifference, and we understand why. But we also disagree. Is this World Series primetime material? Of course not. However, when asked to come up with reasons to watch, a small group of baseball writers quickly generated a long list of storylines, personalities, and raw talents that will be worth watching throughout the series. We say, give us another Game 7, because while this might not be the series we expected or even deserve, it will be a series worth tuning in for. And here’s why. These teams possess notable star power… If you were hoping to see Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, then you must not have been paying attention in the past decade. However, Rangers shortstop Corey Seager has made a compelling case for American League MVP this season, and Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen is likely to finish near the top of the National League Cy Young race. They have the skills and have earned their place at the World Series. Additionally, both teams have the hardware to back it up… The Rangers had an impressive presence at this year’s All-Star Game, with five players, including three-quarters of their everyday infield, starting. The Diamondbacks had three All-Star starters and a talented 23-year-old shortstop as a bench player. It’s clear that these players deserve recognition for their abilities. Moreover, it’s a matchup of power versus speed… The Rangers had the third-most home runs in baseball this season, led by the impressive Adolis García, who hit 39 home runs and won the ALCS MVP award. On the other hand, the Diamondbacks might not have the same offensive power, but they excelled in stolen bases and triples. They stole 166 bases this season, the second-most in the game, and led the league with 44 triples. This adds an exciting dynamic to the matchup. The Diamondbacks also have one of baseball’s most exciting young players… Corbin Carroll, the Diamondbacks’ leadoff hitter, is a talent to watch. He is a shoo-in for National League Rookie of the Year and possesses a unique blend of speed and power that could make him one of the game’s great players in the coming decade. But Carroll isn’t the only young star on the field… Rangers third baseman Josh Jung and Diamondbacks infielder Jordan Lawler are both just starting to make a name for themselves. Jung was an All-Star as a rookie this season, while Lawler ranks ninth on Baseball America’s list of top prospects. Both players have the potential to become prominent figures in the sport. The Rangers went all-in at the trade deadline to reach the World Series… The Rangers made significant moves at the trade deadline, acquiring Max Scherzer, Jordan Montgomery, Aroldis Chapman, and Austin Hedgers. Their aggressive approach shows their determination to compete for the championship. On the other hand, the Diamondbacks focused on building from within… While the Diamondbacks made smaller deals at the deadline, they have predominantly developed their team internally. They have several players who made their MLB debuts this season, and they have proven their capabilities in the postseason. There are also some notable veterans chasing one last shot at a ring… Evan Longoria, a 38-year-old Diamondbacks player, has been to the World Series once in his rookie year but hasn’t had the opportunity since. He hopes to win a championship in what could be his final season. Similarly, Tommy Pham of the Diamondbacks and Will Smith of the Rangers are veterans seeking their first and third consecutive titles, respectively. However, Madison Bumgarner, a notable left-handed pitcher with a history of success in the postseason, is absent from the World Series after being released by the Diamondbacks with a high ERA. The Diamondbacks front office has an inspiring story… After a major organizational overhaul seven years ago, the Diamondbacks hired Mike Hazen and Torey Lovullo, both with connections to the Boston Red Sox. Hazen has earned respect and support from the industry, especially after his wife’s passing. His leadership has delivered the team to its first World Series appearance since 2001. Similarly, the Rangers’ front office is intriguing… Rangers general manager Chris Young, at the age of 44, has made a significant impact in his first full year on the job. Young had a successful career as a pitcher and transitioned into the front office after working in the league office. His story adds another layer of interest to the Series.
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