Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter will miss today’s game, and could be injured list bound, due to back spasms, per manager Bruce Bochy (via the beats).
This is obviously unfortunate and unpleasant, though any back issue with Carter can’t be considered shocking, given his history. Carter has missed time on multiple occasions during his professional career due to back issues, including most of the 2024 season.
Carter started the season in the minors, was called up in early May, struggled, went on the injured list, returned, and was solid through the All Star Break. Since the Break, however, he has slashed .118/.211/.206 in 38 plate appearances, and one can reasonably wonder whether back issues contributed to those struggles.
If Carter goes on the injured list, either Alejandro Osuna or Michael Helman would seem likely to be called up to take his place. As of now, Ezequiel Duran is essentially the team’s lone backup outfielder, though Josh Smith can play the outfield as well, and Joc Pederson can, theoretically.
UPDATE — The Rangers have placed Carter on the injured list. Alejandro Osuna has been recalled to replace him on the active roster.
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