The Texas Rangers are focusing on balancing optimism with realism as they prepare for the upcoming MLB Draft, with their scouting director Kipp Fagg emphasizing the importance of top draft picks. The organization has successfully developed several first-round selections into major league players, boasting a remarkable streak of having first-rounders from six consecutive drafts on their roster. This success highlights a commitment to digging deeper into players' intangibles, which has become a cornerstone of their scouting strategy.

As they head into the draft, the Rangers face a crucial decision with the 12th overall pick. With a strong recent track record of developing talent, including players like Josh Jung and Kumar Rocker, the Rangers aim to select a player who can contribute significantly to the team's future. Their strategy underscores the necessity of making informed, impactful choices that can drive the franchise's success for years to come.

The Texas Rangers have experienced a mixed bag in their MLB Draft history, filled with high-profile successes and stark failures. Top picks like Dillon Tate, selected 4th overall in 2015, have become cautionary tales; Tate's career has fizzled out after failing to progress beyond Single-A. Chris Seise, another first-rounder, struggled with injuries and failed to make an impact, while Owen White, once a top pitching prospect, has seen his stock decline due to performance issues. On the flip side, Josh Jung and Kumar Rocker have shown promise, with Jung standing out as the team's best draft choice since Joey Gallo, and Rocker showcasing elite talent despite injury setbacks.

The 2023 draft pick, Wyatt Langford, is already among the league’s top prospects, emerging quickly as a force in the lineup. The Rangers' approach to the draft has evolved as they strive to balance the unpredictability of young talent with the need for immediate contributors.

As the All-Star break approaches, savvy fantasy baseball players are scouring the waiver wire for starting pitchers who are delivering solid performances. Kris Bubic and Matthew Boyd have emerged as must-start options, but there are still hidden gems available. Jose Soriano of the Los Angeles Angels has shown flashes of brilliance, striking out 28 batters over three games despite some inconsistency. Ryne Nelson of the Arizona Diamondbacks has been spectacular since becoming a full-time starter, recording a 1.53 ERA in his last five starts.

Meanwhile, Joe Boyle of the Tampa Bay Rays is an intriguing option, boasting impressive minor league stats. While Boyle's role is currently as a bulk pitcher, he could soon transition to a starter if he continues his upward trajectory. Lastly, Kumar Rocker of the Texas Rangers has recently returned from injury and has performed well in limited innings. As the season progresses, these pitchers could become vital assets for fantasy managers looking to solidify their rotations.

The MLB waiver wire is heating up as several players emerge as valuable fantasy options. Tyler O'Neill of the Baltimore Orioles, with a power upside, has returned from the IL but is currently hitting low numbers. Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays has shown impressive speed, making him a solid addition for stolen bases. Evan Carter from the Texas Rangers is back and performing well, while Nolan Schanuel from the Los Angeles Angels is carving a niche for himself with good contact rates and emerging power.

Other noteworthy mentions include Tyler Freeman of the Colorado Rockies, who boasts a high batting average, and Zack Gelof of the Oakland Athletics, who brings power and speed potential. With the season progressing, these players are ones to watch as they could significantly impact fantasy rosters.

As we hit Week 14 of the fantasy baseball season, several starting pitchers have emerged as intriguing waiver wire pickups. Jacob Lopez from the Athletics has dramatically turned his season around, boasting a remarkable 0.39 ERA over his last four outings. Utilizing his slider and changeup more effectively has contributed to this success.

Kumar Rocker of the Texas Rangers, previously a highly-rated prospect, has begun to show his potential with a solid 2.20 ERA in his last three starts but still has work to do on his other pitches. Mike Soroka, now with the Nationals, has also found a rhythm, posting a 3.49 ERA since June 1 as he focuses on improving his changeup.

Eric Lauer of the Blue Jays has revitalized his career after a rough past, sporting a 3.32 ERA across four recent starts. Lastly, Quinn Priester’s impressive performance with a 2.30 ERA since joining the Brewers makes him another must-watch player. Fantasy managers should consider these pitchers as viable options for bolstering their rosters.