Get ready, baseball fans, because the Texas Rangers are officially kicking off their journey to the 2026 season! Spring Training is here, and it’s packed with key dates, new faces, and exciting matchups you won’t want to miss. But here’s where it gets interesting: with a new manager at the helm and some bold offseason moves, this could be a make-or-break year for the Rangers. Let’s dive into the timeline and explore what’s in store.
Published February 10, 2026 8:04pm CST
The Rangers’ pitchers and catchers reported to Surprise, Arizona, on Tuesday, marking the official start of Spring Training. The rest of the team will join them in the desert over the next few days as they prepare for the upcoming season. Here’s a breakdown of the dates you need to circle on your calendar:
Timeline:
Feb. 10: Pitchers & Catchers Report
This date wasn’t just about players showing up—it was the first day under new manager Skip Schumaker, who took over in November 2025 after Bruce Bochy’s departure. Schumaker, fresh off an NL Manager of the Year win with the Miami Marlins in 2023, brings a fresh perspective to the Rangers’ dugout. But will his success in Miami translate to Texas? Only time will tell.
Feb. 15: First Full Squad Workout
This is when the entire Spring Training roster will be together for the first time. Keep an eye on outfielder Brandon Nimmo, who joined the Rangers in an offseason trade with the New York Mets for Marcus Semien. Another player to watch? Mackenzie Gore, the pitcher acquired from the Nationals in January for five prospects. Is this the year Gore lives up to his potential? Fans are eager to find out.
Feb. 20: First Cactus League Exhibition Game vs. Kansas City Royals
The Rangers will face off against the Royals at Surprise Stadium, their shared Spring Training facility. Don’t expect to see starters like Corey Seager for long—they’ll likely get just a few innings before making way for non-roster invitees and prospects. And this is the part most people miss: Spring Training is as much about evaluating young talent as it is about prepping the stars.
This game is just the beginning of a 31-game exhibition schedule, including split-squad games on Feb. 26 and March 14.
March 4: World Baseball Classic Exhibition Game vs. Brazil
As part of MLB’s effort to support international teams ahead of the World Baseball Classic, the Rangers will host Team Brazil at Surprise Stadium. This game not only helps Brazil prepare but also gives Rangers fans a glimpse of global baseball talent. Could this be a preview of future MLB stars?
March 20: Spring Breakout Game
For the third year, MLB will showcase its top prospects in exhibition games. The Rangers’ prospect team will face the Royals, with shortstop Sebastian Walcott taking center stage. Rated by MLB Pipeline as the 7th best prospect in baseball heading into 2026, Walcott is a name to remember. Is he the next big thing for the Rangers?
March 21: Final Cactus League Games
The Rangers will wrap up their time in Arizona with a road game against the Arizona Diamondbacks before heading back to North Texas.
March 23–24: Exhibition Games at Globe Life Field
Before opening the regular season in Philadelphia on March 26, the Rangers will play two exhibition games against the Royals at Globe Life Field. These games won’t count toward Cactus League standings but will serve as a final tune-up for the season.
Source: Information in this story came from the Texas Rangers' official website.
Now, here’s the big question: With a new manager, fresh talent, and a packed Spring Training schedule, are the Rangers poised for a breakout year? Or will they face growing pains along the way? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
