The Texas Rangers have placed first baseman Jake Burger on the 10-day injured list with a left quad strain, retroactive to July 13. The team is expected to announce a corresponding roster move on Friday, when they kick off their series against the Detroit Tigers.
Since IL placements can only be backdated three days, and Burger’s last appearance was on July 12, the Rangers made the move now to maximize his time on the injured list. If he recovers quickly, he could miss just five games. Burger sustained the injury running out a grounder during last Friday’s game in Houston. He remained in for an inning defensively before being replaced. He pinch-hit the next day but sat out the series finale.
Ezequiel Duran covered first base in the last two games against the Astros and is currently the only reserve infielder on the roster. Possible replacements include Justin Foscue, Blaine Crim, or Josh Jung. Another option is Rowdy Tellez, who recently signed a minor league deal with the Rangers. Tellez has hit well in Triple-A and could be added to the 40-man roster, which currently has an opening after the team waived Billy McKinney.
Regardless of who replaces Burger, first base remains a position the front office, led by GM Chris Young, is expected to address before the trade deadline. Burger, acquired in an offseason trade with Miami, has hit 11 home runs but is struggling with a .228 average and a .259 OBP in his debut season with Texas. This marks his second trip to the IL this year, and even if he returns soon, his performance hasn’t been strong enough to solidify his role.
Duran is also struggling offensively, batting just .150 without a home run in 90 plate appearances. Foscue and Crim have limited MLB experience, and although Crim has been productive in Triple-A, he’s already 28 and in his third year at that level. Tellez hit .208/.249/.434 with Seattle earlier this season before being released.
Jung was demoted two weeks ago after a rough June and has posted modest numbers in seven games at Triple-A since. He has no first base experience, so if he’s recalled, it would likely require Josh Smith to shift from third to first during Burger’s absence.