Rangers Provide Updates on Injured Players
The Texas Rangers recently placed Evan Carter on the injured list due to back tightness. Manager Bruce Bochy clarified that Carter is dealing with a stress reaction and is expected to be out for about a month, according to Kennedi Landry of MLB.com.
Carter, a 21-year-old top prospect, debuted late in 2023 and was instrumental in the Rangers’ World Series run, hitting .300/.417/.500 in 17 postseason games. However, his first full MLB season has been challenging, with a .188/.272/.361 line and a 26.5% strikeout rate over 162 plate appearances. Carter admitted he played through back discomfort before his IL placement, which may have impacted his performance. Wyatt Langford has stepped into left field, opening DH opportunities for Robbie Grossman and Ezequiel Duran.
There was better news for other injured players. Offseason signee Tyler Mahle threw to hitters on Wednesday as part of his recovery from Tommy John surgery, reported Shawn McFarland of the Dallas Morning News. Mahle is scheduled for three more live sessions before a potential minor league rehab stint, aiming for a Rangers debut post-All-Star Break.
Mahle, 13 months removed from the surgery that ended his Twins tenure, was a solid mid-rotation starter with the Reds, posting a 3.75 ERA and striking out over 27% of opponents in 2021. The Rangers signed him to a backloaded two-year deal worth $22 million in December.
The Rangers have a full rotation on the injured list, with Jon Gray’s groin strain being the shortest recovery. Mahle, Max Scherzer, and Jacob deGrom are still rehabbing from 2023 surgeries, and Cody Bradford, out since mid-April with a rib stress fracture, has progressed to throwing from 120 feet on flat ground. Bradford started the season strong with a 1.40 ERA over 19 1/3 innings.
On the position-player side, rookie infielder Justin Foscue has been out nearly all season with a left oblique strain. After being called up on April 2 and placed on the 60-day IL, Foscue is now eligible for reinstatement and has started a rehab assignment in the Arizona complex league. The Rangers may not have an immediate MLB spot for Foscue, as Josh Smith has excelled at third base in Josh Jung’s absence.
Leave a Reply