Texas Rangers Face Second Base Dilemma

0:00On April 21st, the Texas Rangers just finished a 10-game road trip, going four wins and six losses overall, leaving them at 11 and 11. They're heading into a three-game home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The infields been carrying the offense, but second base remains a glaring weak spot for manager Skip Shoemaker. Earlier this week, they wrapped up against the Seattle Mariners with a series loss. The team traded Marcus Semyon to the New York Metz for Outfielder Brandon Nemo, expecting some defensive drop-off, but the offense at second hasn't clicked either. Current starter, Josh Smith is slashing 185 over 284 slash 200, with just one extra base hit in 74 plate. Appearances. Fans and analysts are buzzing about Shoemaker's line of choices as Smith's slum echoes early struggles from guys like Josh Jung and Jot Pederson who bounced back. Giving Smith the boot after only 22 games would be hasty, but he sat out Saturday, signaling potential tweaks that could shake up the bottom.

1:00Of the order, meanwhile, utility man Ezekiel Durran is swinging a hot bat at 289 with a 347 on base percentage, reaching base in 5 of, his last six gains. He's versatile across the infield and outfield, though he had a throwing error Saturday that cost runs. Smith misplayed a pop fly Sunday, too, highlighting defensive issues. The rest of the infield shines, Jung's at 290 with 20 hits, Jake Berger's leading in run scored, and Cory Seeger stays steady. Nemo's boosted the lineup, making the trade look solid so far, but filling that second base gap will be key as they push forward at home. MLB news today, powered by AI bringing you what matters on the diamond.