Star break with a sudden surge in the standings—and they’re not done yet. With the trade deadline looming, the front office and clubhouse are aligned on one thing: they’re all in.

Korean right fielder Shin-Soo Choo, who spent seven seasons with the Rangers, will return to Arlington on Aug. 22 for the first time since 2020. Choo hit .260 with the Rangers with 114 home runs. Choo, along with Beltré will throw a ceremonial first pitch prior to the start of a three-game series against the Cleveland Guardians.

The July 31 trade deadline is rapidly approaching, and the direction of the Texas Rangers is one of the most fascinating storylines. At 56-51, their identity as firm buyers or sellers is unclear, and where the team wants to head is a complicated decision.

Also on Aug. 22, the full-size bronze statue honoring Hall of Fame third baseman Adrian Beltre will be unveiled outside the stadium. The ceremony will take place outside the Northeast Entrance Plaza of Globe Life Field, where the statue will be permanently located. Beltre will speak during the ceremony.

According to two industry evaluators, the Rangers have reached out to Tampa Bay to discuss closer Pete Fairbanks. The Rangers drafted Fairbanks in 2015 and he made his major league debut with the club in 2019 before being traded to Tampa shortly thereafter for infielder Nick Solak.

Russell Martin expects to see an improved Rangers against Panathinaikos as the head coach vows not to sit on 2-0 lead Champions League qualifying lead in Athens.