The Rangers-Astros rivalry has evolved from a casual in-state matchup to one of the most heated rivalries in baseball. Here is why.
Historical context: The Astros moved to the American League West in 2013, putting them in the same division as the Rangers. Before that, the Astros were in the NL Central and the rivalry was limited to interleague play.
The Astros cheating scandal (2017): The Astros' sign-stealing scandal hit the Rangers especially hard. Texas finished 2017 at 78-84 while Houston won the World Series using a system that gave their hitters advance knowledge of incoming pitches. Source: MLB investigation report, 2020.
Rangers fans have not forgotten. Astros players from that era are still booed loudly at Globe Life Field.
The 2023 ALCS: The Rangers beat the Astros 4-3 in the 2023 ALCS to advance to the World Series. This was the moment that elevated the rivalry from simmering resentment to full boil. Beating Houston in a 7-game series on their way to a championship is the defining moment of the modern franchise.
The numbers:
- Since 2013 (same division): Astros lead the all-time series 126-101. Source: Baseball Reference.
- Since 2023 (post-championship): Rangers have won 14 of 22 matchups. The tide is turning.
- Average attendance for Rangers-Astros games at Globe Life: 38,200 (capacity is 40,300). Source: ESPN.
Why it matters in DFW: Houston transplants in DFW are numerous. On any Rangers-Astros game night, the stadium is split roughly 70/30 Rangers/Astros. The in-stadium energy is different from any other series. It is personal.
Sources:
- Baseball Reference — head-to-head records
- MLB investigation report (2020) — Astros scandal
- ESPN — attendance data
The 2023 ALCS win in Houston is the greatest moment in Rangers franchise history. Going into their building and winning 11-4 in Game 7 after years of them dominating the division. Perfect.