The wheels haven’t entirely fallen off the Texas Rangers’ season, but some lug nuts are definitely loose.
The only thing that saved them Sunday was that the Minnesota Twins also lost, so the Rangers’ deficit for the second wild-card spot held at 2 1/2 games with 20 to play.
Much can happen in 20 games. The Twins could go on an extended slide. The Rangers could go on an extended winning streak. Cole Hamels could figure things out. Adrian Beltre could have a hamstring transplant. All other wild-card contenders could surrender.
With 20 games left, the Rangers are 71-71.