Texas Rangers pitcher Nathan Eovaldi has been scratched from his scheduled start due to left side tightness. The announcement came just hours before the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Nathan Eovaldi’s Injury Update
The Rangers confirmed that right-handed reliever Jakob Junis would take over the starting role for Eovaldi during what becomes a bullpen game. Manager Skip Schumaker noted that Eovaldi experienced tightness in his left side earlier in the day, prompting medical imaging to assess the issue. The team is currently awaiting results to evaluate the severity of his condition and to plan the next steps for the 36-year-old pitcher.
Recent Performance
Eovaldi, who has a record of 4-4 with a 4.15 ERA, was on a positive streak with two consecutive wins against the New York Yankees. In those appearances, he limited the Yankees to just one run and tallied 15 strikeouts over a span of 15 innings. His noteworthy outings included:
- Eight innings allowing only one run at Yankee Stadium on May 3.
- Seven scoreless innings in his previous home start on April 29.
Recent Injury History
This season, Eovaldi aims to overcome past struggles. Last year, he achieved a career-best 1.73 ERA with an 11-3 record over 22 starts. However, he dealt with elbow inflammation in June and faced a rotator cuff strain that limited his appearances after August 22.
Texas Rangers’ Additional Injury Concerns
In addition to Eovaldi, the Rangers are also facing challenges with second baseman Josh Smith. Smith is currently dealing with wrist inflammation while recovering from a strained right glute. According to Schumaker, this wrist issue may delay Smith’s return from the 10-day injured list.
- Smith was placed on the IL retroactive to May 4.
- He is eligible for activation before a series against Houston, scheduled for Friday night.
- Before his injury, Smith had a batting average of .217 with no home runs and six RBIs over 31 games.
- He maintained a .977 fielding percentage, committing two errors in 88 chances.
As the Rangers manage these injuries, updates will be provided on Eovaldi’s condition and Smith’s return to the lineup. El-Balad is committed to delivering the latest news on this developing situation.
