Rangers Place Josh Jung On IL, Recall Josh Smith

Key Points:

• Third baseman Josh Jung was placed on the injured list due to a right calf strain, having left a recent game early and not progressing enough in recovery to avoid the IL; the Rangers recalled utilityman Josh Smith to provide infield depth.
• Jung has a history of injuries, particularly recurring calf issues near the Achilles tendon, and expressed concern over the location of the strain, though hopes to return by next weekend against the Astros.
• Jung is having his best MLB season, hitting .294/.361/.441 with improved plate discipline and a 128 wRC+, despite reduced power numbers; his absence comes at a crucial time as the Rangers compete in a tight AL West race.
• Josh Smith, recently demoted due to offensive struggles, is unlikely to match Jung’s offensive production but offers defensive stability at third base, where Jung has posted a notably poor defensive rating this season.
• The Rangers won the first game of their series against the Mariners without Jung, extending their division lead, and have adjusted their lineup to accommodate Smith’s strengths against right-handed pitching.