Josh Jung suffered another painful injury setback Friday night, leaving the Texas Rangers with a major concern heading into the final games of the regular season.
Jung was hit on the right hand by a pitch from Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan during the first inning of Texas’ 10-2 loss. The Rangers later confirmed that Jung had suffered a fracture in his right hand.
The third baseman initially stayed in the game and scored after reaching base, but Texas removed him in the third inning. Jung later summed up his immediate reaction with one word: “Devastated.”
The timing makes the injury especially difficult for the Rangers. Jung had only returned from the injured list on Sept. 12 after missing time with a left calf strain. He had been one of Texas’ most consistent hitters before that injury, batting .294 with an .802 OPS when he landed on the IL in July.
Jung’s return had provided another boost to a Texas lineup trying to stay alive in the AL West race. Now, the Rangers will have to deal with another injury involving one of their key position players.
The 28-year-old has already dealt with significant injuries during his career, including a left thumb fracture in 2023 and right wrist problems in 2024. His latest setback comes just weeks after completing his recovery from the calf strain.
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The Rangers also recently lost designated hitter Joc Pederson to a left hand fracture, adding another difficult development to their final stretch.
Texas still has games remaining, but Jung’s injury leaves the club waiting for more information about the severity of the fracture and his availability moving forward. After finally returning to the lineup, another trip to the training room is the last thing Jung or the Rangers wanted.
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