AL West: Rangers have a healthy platoon situation brewing

Texas Rangers

The Rangers have been battling injuries all season, but they are starting to get healthy, which is creating quite a playing time situation. Jake Burger returned from the IL on Friday. He played the first two games versus left-handed pitchers while sitting on Sunday versus a right-handed pitcher, and Rowdy Tellez got the start. With first base occupied, the super utility Josh Smith has moved to the outfield, and that could change in the coming days as well with Evan Carter (pictured) returning from the IL.

That will leave the Rangers with a starting outfield of Carter, Adolis García, and Wyatt Langford but also a healthy infield of the platooning first baseman, Marcus Semien, Corey Seager, and Josh Jung. Oh, and Joc Pederson...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

LaMonte Wade Jr. is not swinging it well, and a change should be coming in Houston.
Jul 29 2026 3:07am
Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
The Nationals bolstered their team for the stretch run and beyond by adding Connelly Early to their rotation, and all it cost them was Curtis Mead...and hopefully not their eternal souls. Plus: Acuña in ATL; SP in MIA; next men up at NYM; needs in PHI; more.
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am

Tools