The World Series champion Texas Rangers play the Chicago Cubs on Thursday night at Globe Life Field in their 2024 home debut.
After defeating the Houston Astros in the ALCS in 2023, the Rangers began a winning streak. The Rangers stunned baseball again in November by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-1. Bruce Bochy told reporters about Thursday's game that the players should enjoy their win.
Yeah, we got to get ready for the game, but this is a special time," remarked. "Not just tonight, but next game when they earn rings. It's difficult, so soak it up." North Texas fans are still celebrating that triumph. Tailgaters wore World Series Champion hats, shirts, necklaces, and beer koozies in tents outside Globe Life Field Thursday afternoon. Some arrived at 8 a.m. to get a grass spot.
Laura Reta of Grapevine attended her 15th Rangers home opener and third with her parents. She found the World Series win weird as a lifelong fan. "There have been years without great seasons," Reta noted. “But we see their camaraderie and how much they love the fans, and we love them too.”
The Rangers are 24-28 in season openers and have won as many games as they've lost at Globe Life Field. This is the Rangers' second home opener against the Cubs, losing to Chicago in 2019. Rangers supporters are hoping to win the World Series again this season. Texas reached the World Series in 2010 and 2011, losing both times.
If the Rangers win this year, they might become the first MLB team to win back-to-back World Series since the 1998, 1999, and 2000 Yankees. Last year, Arlington resident Mike Lara bet on the Rangers winning the World Series and won $8,000. Despite losing key pitchers, he believes the squad can win again.
“If our offense can just do enough to keep us in striking distance when those pitchers come back in June or July, I think we’ll have a great path to get back where we were,” Lara said.
One tent with Chicago Cubs memorabilia stood out among Rangers supporters. Chicago-born Dallas resident Marissa Lopez said she and her family had been there since 9:30 a.m. The Chicago Cubs have won three World Series, but it's been over eight years since their last, ending a 108-year drought.
Lopez said Rangers fans had never been hostile to her while she grilled peppers and onions for hot dogs with her husband. Lopez: “It’s opening day, which is exciting for everybody.” The most essential element is bringing the family out, having fun, and enjoying the game.
Globe Life Field will display the team's 2023 World Series Championship banner near the right field video board for the first time. The Rangers will get their Commissioner's Trophy on the field.
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