It’s taken three months into the 2024 MLB season, but the Texas Rangers have now commemorated their first cycle of the year. Rookie sensation Wyatt Langford marked this significant milestone during a game against the Baltimore Orioles, leading his team to a commanding 11-2 victory. This remarkable achievement stands as only the 11th cycle in the history of the franchise. For Rangers fans, it is also the first cycle since Carlos Gómez’s feat in 2017, making it a momentous occasion.
Wyatt Langford has etched his name alongside Oddibe McDowell, becoming the second rookie in franchise history to complete a cycle. McDowell reached this milestone back in 1985. The feat is notable not just within the team but across the league, as Langford is the first rookie to hit for the cycle since Elly De La Cruz did so on June 23 of the previous year. This makes Langford's accomplishment even more significant within the broader context of MLB history.
The cycle itself was a display of versatility and timing. Langford faced a series of challenges from four different Orioles pitchers. His first at-bat against Cole Irvin resulted in a fly out. However, by the fourth inning, Langford managed to triple off Irvin, setting the stage for what was to come. In the fifth inning, he doubled against Nick Vespi, followed by a single off Dillon Tate in the sixth. Langford sealed his incredible performance with an eighth-inning home run off Matt Krook, completing the cycle.
Langford’s journey to this achievement has been a rollercoaster. Selected with the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft, he entered the season as the No. 4 prospect in baseball. Scouts were confident in their assessments, with R.J. Anderson noting, "Scouts have felt confident giving him plus offensive projections even before he took a pro at-bat." However, Langford initially struggled at the major league level, hitting just .224/.295/.293 through his first 31 games.
An early setback came when Langford suffered a hamstring strain, placing him on the injured list on May 4. His absence was felt, but upon his return on May 28, Langford appeared rejuvenated. Over the next 28 games, he batted .275/.333/.422, demonstrating his potential and resilience. His performance during this period included only 18 strikeouts, underscoring his improved plate discipline and making a strong case for his future in the league.
Despite Langford’s impressive individual achievements, the Texas Rangers face a challenging season. Following Sunday’s win over the Orioles, the team holds a 38-46 record, positioning them eight games out of a wild-card spot. The road ahead remains tough, but Langford’s emergence as a bright spot offers hope and excitement for Rangers fans. His story is a testament to perseverance and talent, and his cycle against the Orioles is but one chapter in what promises to be a compelling career.