Corey Seager sidelined by back spasms as Rangers star battles career-worst slump originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Texas Rangers were without one of their biggest offensive stars Saturday as All-Star shortstop Corey Seager was held out of the starting lineup against the Houston Astros because of back spasms. Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said Seager woke up dealing with discomfort and the team opted for a cautious approach rather than risk worsening the issue.
Schumaker expressed optimism that the issue will be short-lived, saying the club hopes Seager can return for Sunday’s series finale in Houston. The timing of the setback adds another layer of frustration for Seager, who is currently enduring the toughest stretch of his career at the plate.
The veteran shortstop enters the day in a career-worst 0-for-27 slump, a surprising downturn for one of baseball’s most consistent hitters. Seager also missed Friday’s game, though that absence had been scheduled as a routine rest day. He attempted to loosen up and test his back before Saturday’s matchup, but the Rangers ultimately decided he was not ready to play.
Rangers lean on depth
Despite his recent struggles, Seager has still shown flashes of production this season. The five-time All-Star entered play batting .211 with six home runs, 17 RBIs and a .740 OPS. He remains among Texas’ home run leaders despite the prolonged slump and continues to be viewed as a critical piece of the club’s offense.
The recent skid has sharply contrasted with Seager’s track record as one of the game’s premier offensive shortstops. Known for his smooth left-handed swing and postseason success, Seager has repeatedly been one of the Rangers’ most dependable players since arriving in Texas.
With Seager sidelined, Ezequiel Duran stepped into the lineup at shortstop as Texas looked to avoid losing ground in the American League standings.
