Texas Rangers Yet to Decide One Key Position
The Texas Rangers entered spring training with a pretty good idea of their lineup, as every fielding position is manned by a returning starter from the reigning World Series champions.
Injuries have taken a toll in Surprise, causing some reshuffling that could spill in the regular season. All-Star shortstop Corey Seager might not be ready for Opening Day, as he recovers from sports hernia surgery and a recent bout with the flu. Same goes for first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, who’s out with an oblique strain. Third baseman Josh Jung (calf) is getting closer to a return.
As frustrating as those injuries are, none are considered long-term issues. The Rangers should eventually field a defense that is quite familiar and among the best in baseball.
Offensively, however, there is one significant hole to fill. MLB.com recently identified the one position battle facing every club, with the Rangers’ selection being designated hitter. Per MLB.com:Mitch Garver was the lone offensive departure from the World Series lineup, and it remains the only real hole the Rangers have when healthy. Prospects Wyatt Langford and Justin Foscue have both impressed in camp, as well as veteran Jared Walsh, who is finally healthy and appears to have returned to form. Injuries to Corey Seager, Nathaniel Lowe and Josh Jung could force Foscue into a starting role in the infield, but DH at-bats are still up for grabs as well.
Walsh is the best bet to fill in for Lowe in the short term. Langford, a natural outfielder, and Foscue are knocking on the big league door, with DH being a prime spot to pile up some at-bats in addition to filling in when the regular starters need a day off.
