Rangers Lineup Decisions Loom as Spring Training Progresses

PEORIA, Ariz. — Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy is grappling with lineup choices as he aims for an improved season following last year’s struggles. Key players like Wyatt Langford and Joc Pederson are challenging the existing batting order, leading to speculation about slots in the batting lineup ahead of the new season.

As spring training progresses, the identity of the third hitter is a pressing question, with Bochy looking to evaluate where each player best fits. Langford’s ascendance suggests he could be a candidate for that significant role, while Pederson may nudge Adolis García down the order against right-handed pitching. Jake Burger, another newcomer, could find himself hitting as low as eighth depending on lineup matchups.

Bochy is particularly focused on Evan Carter‘s positioning in the batting order. “You know,” Bochy said with a smile, “that’s a fair question.” For now, the team is prioritizing strategies that amplify its chances for success this season.

Carter’s variance in performance against left-handers raises concern, especially as he shares time in centerfield with Leody Taveras and Kevin Pillar. After a strong spring, concerns linger about how Taveras could impact the lineup if Carter is needed to fill in against lefties.

“He’s shown some oomph in his swing from the right side lately,” Bochy noted of Taveras amid the discussions, while cautioning that this momentum has not always been consistent.

Bochy suggested that options are open, citing the potential benefits of trading Taveras while his value is at a peak, especially if Carter secures a primary role in the lineup.

Yet, the management still anticipates that Carter, despite a historically poor performance against left-handed pitchers, can develop over time. His early spring performance featured a dismal line against lefties, leading to Bochy’s challenging position of balancing immediate efficiency against the long-term development of a promising player.

“I’m not as concerned about that as a lot of people are,” Bochy explained when discussing Carter’s challenges. “I’d rather him do his thing against righties. We’ll figure out the lefty matchup later.”

Carter’s struggles to establish any momentum this spring include a career slash line that reflects difficulty against right-handed pitching as well, resulting in broader questions about his readiness as the season approaches. With a batting average languishing around .200 during spring training, observers are concerned about his confidence going forward.

Carter is set to continue in Surprise where he may gain additional at-bats in a lower-pressure environment to help him regain form. Ultimately, the franchise will benefit from patience as the talented young star develops in the minors.