Texas Rangers vs San Diego Padres Picks and Predictions July 3rd 2024

Injuries Force Rangers, Padres to Use Revolving Door of Players

In the middle game of their three-game series in Arlington, Texas, the Texas Rangers and San Diego Padres are dealing with notable injuries that are influencing their lineup decisions. As both teams strive for success, the revolving door of players becomes a crucial aspect of their strategies.

Texas Rangers’ Injury Updates and Roster Changes

Corey Seager’s Absence

The Texas Rangers are navigating the absence of star shortstop Corey Seager, who was hit in the left wrist by a pitch against the Baltimore Orioles. An MRI revealed no fractures, but his return remains uncertain.

“He’s day to day,” said Rangers manager Bruce Bochy. “He’s doing better. He took some swings, so we’re getting good news on that end.”

Roster Adjustments

To fill the gap left by Seager, the Rangers called up infielder Jonathan Ornelas from Triple-A Round Rock, while sending down reliever Brock Burke. Ornelas made an immediate impact, driving in his first MLB run with a sixth-inning double during Tuesday night’s 7-0 win over the Padres.

Pitching Reinforcements

The Rangers are also expecting reinforcements for their pitching staff. Reliever Josh Sborz, recovering from a rotator cuff injury, has pitched 5 1/3 innings over six appearances during his rehab assignment at Round Rock. Starter Tyler Mahle, who is dealing with a UCL sprain, began his rehab assignment recently.

Upcoming Game Strategy

Right-hander Jon Gray will start for the Rangers in hopes of securing a series win. Despite a recent tough outing against the Orioles, Gray boasts a strong track record against the Padres, with a 12-6 record and a 2.99 ERA over 25 outings.

San Diego Padres’ Injury Updates and Player Performance

Xander Bogaerts’ Recovery

The Padres are looking forward to the return of second baseman Xander Bogaerts, who has been out since May 20 due to a shoulder injury. Bogaerts is expected to start a rehab assignment soon, potentially returning earlier than the initial August projection. To protect his shoulder, Bogaerts plans to adjust his swing mechanics.

Luis Campusano’s Progress

Catcher Luis Campusano has begun his rehab stint at Single-A Lake Elsinore, where he hit a three-run homer in his first game as a designated hitter. He also caught the next night, indicating a promising recovery. Campusano could rejoin the Padres as soon as Friday, ahead of an eight-game homestand.

Rookie Pitcher Adam Mazur

Rookie right-hander Adam Mazur will start for the Padres on Wednesday. Mazur earned his first MLB win on June 25 against the Nationals and, despite a 7.25 ERA, the Padres are optimistic about his potential.

Team Resilience and Recent Performance

Despite recent injuries, the Padres have shown resilience, going 9-3 in their past 12 games and averaging over six runs per game. Third baseman Manny Machado highlighted the importance of contributions from the entire roster, emphasizing a collective effort for a successful season and potential postseason.

“It’s not going to just take one or two guys to carry a team,” Machado said. “It takes all 40 guys on the roster to win a season, to win a postseason, to win a World Series.”

Conclusion

The Texas Rangers and San Diego Padres are both adapting to the challenges posed by injuries through strategic player movements and rehab assignments. As the Rangers aim to maintain their winning momentum with key players like Jon Gray and Jonathan Ornelas, the Padres focus on quick recoveries for Xander Bogaerts and Luis Campusano to reinforce their lineup. These adjustments underscore the importance of depth and adaptability in managing the demands of a rigorous MLB season.

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