The Texas Rangers face a significant setback as one of their key hitters, Josh Jung, is sidelined for an indefinite period due to a fractured wrist sustained after being hit by a pitch in Monday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Jung’s absence adds to the challenges for a team already grappling with injuries at the start of the 2024 season. 

While the Rangers anticipated being without players like Jacob deGrom, Max Scherzer, and Tyler Mahle, Nathaniel Lowe’s injury further complicated matters. Now, with Jung out, the team must adjust their lineup once again. While it’s unrealistic to expect any single player to fully replace Jung’s contributions, the Rangers are counting on several individuals to step up in his absence. Manager Bruce Bochy will be looking to these five players to fill the void until Jung’s return.

Placing such a hefty burden on a rookie, especially one with limited experience at the professional level, might seem unfair. However, the Texas Rangers are relying on Wyatt Langford to step up while Josh Jung is sidelined due to injury. Langford’s impressive performance during spring training earned him a spot on the Rangers’ Opening Day roster, presenting him with an opportunity to showcase his value to the team.

While Langford is primarily an outfielder, he has been utilized as the Rangers’ designated hitter, a role in which the coaching staff expects him to excel. Despite the defensive responsibilities falling to other players, Langford’s strength lies in his batting abilities. The Rangers prioritize Langford’s offensive contributions, evident in his swift transition from Arizona to Arlington. Jung’s offensive prowess last season, boasting a .467 slugging percentage with 23 home runs and 70 RBIs, sets a high standard for Langford to meet. If Langford can focus on delivering solid performances at the plate, the Rangers will be able to address the defensive gaps left by Jung’s absence with other players.

This wasn’t the plan. Jared Walsh was a non-roster invitee to Rangers spring training, and his successful run in the Cactus League combined with Lowe’s injury opened the door for the former Los Angeles Angels first baseman to snag a spot on the Opening Day roster.

Walsh was an All-Star with the Halos in 2021, but fell on hard times the past two seasons. From 2022-2023, Walsh hit just .197/.258/.355. That won’t cut it. With Jung out of the lineup, the Rangers will be looking to Ezequiel Duran to grab some reps at third base. That means Bochy will be turning to Walsh more often than not at first base. Texas needs Walsh to get back to the player he was in 2021 in order to keep the team afloat while Jung is on the mend.