Dave Raymond and Mike Bacsik Lead Rangers Sports Network Coverage of Rangers-Athletics Showdown

Match date: 16 April 2026

Dave Raymond and Mike Bacsik Lead Rangers Sports Network Coverage of Rangers-Athletics Showdown

The Texas Rangers travel to Sacramento to face the Oakland Athletics on Thursday, April 16, with Rangers Sports Network providing comprehensive coverage led by veteran commentator Dave Raymond and former MLB pitcher Mike Bacsik. Presenter Jared Sandler and reporter Laura Stickells complete the broadcast team for what promises to be a pivotal matchup in the early AL West standings.

The game takes place at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California, with first pitch scheduled for 3:05 PM Pacific Time (11:05 PM BST). The Athletics currently lead the AL West with a 10-8 record, holding a one-game advantage over the Rangers' 9-9 mark. This represents the first time the Athletics have sat atop the division since June 19, 2021, adding significant intrigue to the encounter.

Dave Raymond, the primary voice for Rangers Sports Network, brings decades of broadcasting experience to the microphone. Raymond has established himself as one of baseball's most respected play-by-play commentators, known for his crisp delivery and comprehensive game analysis. His partnership with Mike Bacsik creates a dynamic commentary pairing that blends professional announcing with genuine baseball insight.

Bacsik, a former Major League pitcher who played for multiple teams including the Texas Rangers, brings authentic on-field perspective to the broadcast booth. His pitching background provides valuable context for analysing the starting pitchers and strategic decisions throughout the game. The former hurler's experience competing at the highest level enables him to explain the technical aspects of the sport with clarity and authority.

Presenter Jared Sandler manages the broadcast flow and manages studio segments, whilst reporter Laura Stickells handles sideline updates and player interviews throughout the evening. This four-person ensemble delivers the comprehensive coverage Rangers fans expect from their regional broadcaster.

The Rangers enter Thursday's contest looking to recover after falling 8-1 on Wednesday night. The Athletics' recent victory, propelled by Shea Langeliers' longest home run of the MLB season and Jacob Wilson's two-run shot, demonstrated their offensive firepower. Texas will need to improve their run production and pitching consistency to even the series and regain ground in the increasingly competitive AL West race.

Thursday's game represents the fourth contest of this series between the teams, with the Athletics currently leading the matchup 2-1. The Rangers Sports Network broadcast offers fans comprehensive analysis of every pitch, with Raymond's commentary driving the narrative alongside Bacsik's expert perspective on the tactical elements unfolding on the field. For viewers seeking in-depth coverage from a Texas-focused perspective, this broadcast delivers authoritative baseball journalism throughout the evening's competition.

Those seeking additional context on the Rangers' 2026 campaign and statistical information can explore ESPN's complete game coverage and live scoring, which updates in real-time throughout the contest.

Article generated: 16 April 2026, 20:04 GMT