From Struggles to Success: Patrick Corbin’s Remarkable Resurgence with the Texas Rangers
Over the course of his six-year contract with the Washington Nationals, Patrick Corbin’s performance was often marked by inconsistency. In fact, during his tenure there, he never finished a season with an earned run average (ERA) below 4.66. On three separate occasions, he led the National League in losses, highlighting the challenges he faced. His longest streak of starts allowing three or fewer runs was just seven, achieved only once, and beyond that, he rarely maintained a streak longer than four consecutive quality outings.
A Surprising Turn in the Later Stages of His Career
Fast forward to his first ten starts since joining the Texas Rangers as an emergency replacement this spring, and Corbin’s performance has been nothing short of extraordinary. Averaging over five innings per appearance and not allowing more than three earned runs in any start, his turnaround is a striking example of resilience and adaptation. Despite his age-now 35-Corbin appears unfazed by the dramatic shift in his career trajectory, maintaining a calm demeanor that has become his trademark.
Adapting to a New Environment
“Being part of this team and this rotation is a different experience,” Corbin remarked. “Sometimes, you find yourself stuck in a rut and struggle to break free. I truly enjoyed my time in D.C., but starting fresh here has been invigorating.”
Initially, Corbin was uncertain about his chances of securing a spot on a major league roster. Entering spring training without a contract and still unemployed in mid-March, he faced an uncertain future. However, circumstances changed quickly when the Rangers lost key starters Jon Gray to a wrist injury and Cody Bradford to elbow soreness within the same week. This created an urgent need for reliable innings-eaters, and Corbin’s track record of durability made him an ideal candidate.
Proven Durability and Confidence
Since the 2016 season, only Aaron Nola of the Philadelphia Phillies has thrown more innings than Corbin, underscoring his reputation as a dependable workhorse. “I always believed I could still compete at this level,” Corbin said. “As spring progressed, I was running out of options, but I discussed my situation with my wife, and my desire to keep playing remained strong. I didn’t want to end my career on a sour note, and I feel as good as I ever have.”
Impressive Early Results and Key Metrics
Corbin made his debut for the Rangers on April 8 and has quickly established himself as a vital contributor. Heading into his scheduled start against the Nationals at Nationals Park, he boasts a 3.71 ERA, with 41 strikeouts over 53⅓ innings pitched. His 1.25 walks and hits per inning pitched (WHIP) is the lowest of his career since 2019, and he’s allowing less hard contact than ever before. Although a lower batting average on balls in play (BABIP) suggests some regression might be on the horizon, he’s currently holding opponents to a .249 average-his best since helping the Nationals secure the 2019 World Series title.
Refining Pitching Strategy
“I’ve been locating my pitches better, being strategic with my approach, and mixing things up,” Corbin explained in his typically understated manner. “I’ve felt the same for the past several years, but a change of scenery can sometimes make a difference. It’s a combination of factors.”
The Role of Defensive Support and Pitch Selection
Part of Corbin’s recent success can be attributed to the strong defensive backing of the Rangers, who rank second in Major League Baseball with 24 defensive runs saved as of Thursday. In contrast, the Nationals-where Corbin spent most of his career-rank 25th with a deficit of 13 defensive runs saved. This improved defense reduces the pressure on pitchers and contributes to better overall results.
However, many in the Rangers’ organization emphasize one particular pitch as a key to Corbin’s resurgence: his cutter. Once viewed as a potential game-changer, Corbin’s cutter has become a weapon. During his final spring training with the Nationals last year, he and pitching coach Jim Hickey believed that adding a cutter against right-handed hitters could help him regain his earlier form. This season, opponents are hitting just .225 against it, a significant improvement from the .301 average in 2024. Notably, right-handed batters, who previously hit over .300 against Corbin, are now managing only a .259 average this year.
Mastering the Cutter and Adjusting Approach
“I’ve been throwing it more frequently and feeling more comfortable with it,” Corbin said. “Locating it well and understanding when to use it has made a big difference. My natural pitches are the changeup and fastball, but I’ve been working on the cutter to keep hitters off balance.”
Influence of Veteran Mentorship
During a recent practice session, Corbin was approached by Mike Maddux, the Rangers’ pitching coach. Maddux, who previously worked with Corbin during his time with the Nationals until 2017, now serves on Texas’s coaching staff. His role involves fine-tuning veteran pitchers like Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, helping them maximize their strengths without overcomplicating their approach. Maddux’s guidance has been instrumental in Corbin’s recent success, emphasizing the importance of trusting one’s pitches and maintaining confidence.
Impact on the Rangers’ Playoff Aspirations
Corbin’s impressive start has been vital for the Rangers, especially as their offense has struggled at times, clouding their championship ambitions. Early in the season, the team was searching for a reliable fifth starter. Now, thanks in part to Corbin’s stability and the stellar performances of Eovaldi and deGrom, Texas boasts the best rotation ERA in the American League.
Veteran Leadership and Personal Connections
Corbin draws inspiration from his relationships with fellow veteran Max Scherzer, with whom he remains close. The two often spend their offseasons together in Jupiter, Florida. When Corbin signed with the Rangers-coinciding with the birth of his third child-Scherzer offered his former teammate a place to stay in Arlington, as he still owns a house there from his time with the team. Corbin has been living there since, jokingly noting that Scherzer might forget he owns the property at times.
Long-Term Goals and Family Priorities
For Corbin, the desire to continue playing is rooted in family. He emphasizes that his motivation isn’t driven by a need to prove himself but by a wish to extend his career long enough to share meaningful moments with his children. “I love this game,” he said, “and I want my kids, especially my oldest, to remember these experiences. It’s about creating memories and enjoying the journey.”
