The Texas Rangers were looking to extend their six-game winning streak on Tuesday when they resumed their series against the Cleveland Guardians. After a four-game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays and Monday’s impressive 6-3 victory at Progressive Field, Texas improved to 43-42 and remained atop the American League West, with ace Jacob deGrom scheduled to take the mound as they chase another key win.
Corey Seager remains one of the Rangers’ most important players this season, despite having a down year. Entering Tuesday, the five-time All-Star was batting .182 with 34 hits, 10 homers, 25 RBIs and 28 runs scored in 50 games this season.
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Seager was originally listed as the club’s No. 3 hitter in Tuesday’s starting lineup, but in a surprising late change, rookie Cameron Cauley came to the plate in his spot during a pinch-hit situation, signaling that Seager had been removed before first pitch.
The Rangers later announced that Seager left the game due to back discomfort (h/t Evan Grant of Dallas Morning News).
Any long term absence for Seager would be a significant concern for Texas. Since signing his 10-year, $325 million contract before the 2022 season, he has become the centerpiece of the Rangers’ offense, helping lead the franchise to its first World Series championship in 2023 while earning his second career World Series MVP award.
Injuries, however, have continued to interrupt Seager’s availability in 2026. He has already missed time this season while recovering from a concussion and previously dealt with back issues that landed him on the injured list before returning to the lineup late last week. Those setbacks came after his 2025 season ended prematurely when he underwent an appendectomy in late August, with the Rangers ultimately missing the playoffs.
The club will hope Tuesday’s lineup change proves to be precautionary rather than the start of another lengthy absence for one of its most important players.
