The Texas Rangers have disclosed that first baseman Nathaniel Lowe is sidelined with an oblique strain. He is anticipated to be out for the remainder of Spring Training, casting doubt on his availability for the Opening Day roster. Lowe expressed his sentiments, stating, “I’m not thrilled about it; it’s unfamiliar territory for me. We’ll handle it as it comes.” Notably, Nathaniel Lowe has never previously been placed on the injured list throughout his professional baseball career. With Lowe likely out for Opening Day, attention turns to who will step up in his absence. Several compelling candidates have emerged during this year’s Spring Training.
Justin Foscue Ranked fifth among the Rangers’ prospects by ITD, Justin Foscue has amassed 26 at-bats in ten games this spring. He boasts a batting average of .308, an on-base percentage of .357, and a slugging percentage of .423, with eight hits, two runs, three doubles, one walk, and eight strikeouts, yielding an OPS of .780. Foscue has demonstrated flawless defensive performances at both first and second base. Notably, he is presently the only one of the three candidates on the 40-man roster.
Jared Walsh In eight games, Jared Walsh has registered 20 at-bats. He boasts an impressive .400 batting average, a .478 on-base percentage, and a .750 slugging percentage, recording eight hits, four runs, one double, two home runs, four RBIs, three walks, and five strikeouts, with an OPS of 1.228. Walsh has displayed faultless fielding at first base.
Blaine Crim Across 12 games, Blaine Crim has accumulated 22 at-bats. He maintains a .318 batting average, a .360 on-base percentage, and a .591 slugging percentage, amassing seven hits, three runs, three doubles, two home runs, nine RBIs, ten strikeouts, and an OPS of .951. Crim has exhibited impeccable defensive prowess at first base.
Corey Seager Injury Update In a separate development, Corey Seager’s recovery from a sports hernia has progressed swiftly. Having missed all of Spring Training thus far, Seager has commenced fielding ground balls and engaging in catch activities as of Thursday, as reported by Jeff Wilson of Rangers Today. There’s now a possibility that Seager could return before Opening Day, which is welcomed news for the Rangers’ star infield, particularly considering the potential absence of Nate Lowe from the Opening Day roster.
Recap Early-season injuries have afflicted the Texas Rangers, with four pitchers (Mahle, Coleman, Scherzer, deGrom) and three infielders (Jung, Seager, Lowe) nursing various injuries. However, updates on these players indicate that they are progressing through their respective recovery programs, either on schedule or ahead of expectations. As these key players continue their healing journeys, the Rangers will rely on their robust farm system for support.
