The Texas Rangers wrapped up a disappointing road trip with a 9-2 loss to the New York Yankees, finishing the series with a 17-20 record that leaves plenty of questions heading home.

In a game that felt like a microcosm of their recent struggles, the Rangers managed just two runs while the Yankees piled on nine. The lone bright spot? Nathan Eovaldi—except he couldn't pitch today after taking the mound last night. Without their ace, the Rangers' fortunes quickly unraveled.

Manager Skip Schumaker made some head-scratching calls that didn't help. He started Joc Pederson—usually a designated hitter—in the outfield for the first time in ages. Predictably, it didn't go well. Then, with a slim 2-1 lead, Schumaker left left-handed starter MacKenzie Gore in the game even as he neared 100 pitches, loaded the bases, and had already walked two left-handed batters. The result? A disastrous six-run sixth inning that sealed the Rangers' fate.

On a brighter note, Ezequiel Duran continues to be the player to watch. He homered, walked twice, and drove in both of Texas' runs, stepping up in place of the injured Josh Jung. For a moment, it looked like his performance might be enough—until the Yankees reminded everyone why they're the league's top team.

Now, the Rangers head home for a tough series against the Chicago Cubs, who are just half a game shy of the best record in the National League. RHP Kumar Rocker is set to take the mound for Texas in Friday's opener at 7:05 pm CDT from The Shed, available on the Rangers Sports Network. It's a quick turnaround, but for fans looking for gear to rep their team through the ups and downs, now's the time to stock up on Rangers apparel and show your support.