It's been a tough season for the Texas Rangers, capstoned by injuries and intense competition. A significant blow to the team is the premature end to outfielder Evan Carter's year. The talented young player has been struggling with lower back tightness and hasn't seen the field since May 26. Initially expected to make a triumphant return, recent reports indicate that Carter is not expected to play again this year.
Evan Carter's arrival in the MLB was highly anticipated, with the outfielder making his debut on September 8. Despite playing in only 23 regular season games, he made a substantial impact, demonstrating offensive prowess with a batting average of .306, an on-base percentage of .413, and a slugging percentage of .645. This performance carried over into the postseason, where Carter hit .300, maintained an on-base percentage of .417, and slugged .500 across 17 games.
The Rangers, despite the setbacks, achieved a significant milestone by winning their first World Series title in franchise history. The team clinched a wild-card berth during the final weekend of the regular season, showcasing their resilience amidst a challenging campaign.
The 2024 season holds promise for Carter, who remains rookie-eligible. The Texas Rangers' faith in Carter has been evident since they selected him in the second round of the 2020 draft. Reflecting on Carter’s journey, Chris Young, GM of the Rangers, remarked, "Carter, who didn't partake in many showcase circuit events as an amateur, was a relative unknown when the Rangers selected him in the second round of the 2020 draft. Initial criticism gave way to fast-and-furious mea culpas once area scouts who saw him that spring started to spread The Word. Carter has since introduced himself to the world on a national stage during the postseason." Indeed, Carter has proven to be an essential asset to the Rangers' lineup.
Addressing Carter's versatility, Young added, "He's also a speedy runner who can play all three outfield positions. The main question left about his game entails his power potential. Whatever the resolution, he's going to remain an important part of the Rangers lineup for years to come." This sentiment is echoed within the organization, confident that Carter will continue to be a cornerstone player.
In Carter's absence, the Rangers have adapted their outfield lineup, featuring Wyatt Langford, Leody Taveras, and Adolis García from left to right. Additionally, Josh Jung has returned from a broken wrist and resumed his role at third base, while Josh Smith has shifted to the designated hitter position. The only position player addition at the trade deadline was backup catcher Carson Kelly, indicating the team's reliance on their current roster to navigate through the season's remainder.
Currently, the Rangers hold a 52-55 record, trailing the Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners by 3 1/2 games in the AL West and six games behind the third wild-card spot. The team’s ability to stay competitive despite the injuries marks a season of resilience and potential for growth in the coming years.
As the Rangers close out a season defined by both triumph and adversity, the focus will undoubtedly return to Evan Carter’s potential impact when he returns. His early performances have already showcased his capabilities, and his future with the Rangers promises to be a pivotal element of the team's success moving forward.