The big question for the Rangers this offseason has finally been answered: Evan Carter will be the team's starting center fielder in 2026. The decision came down to a choice between Carter and Wyatt Langford, both of whom are standout defensive outfielders. Last season, Carter recorded 4 Outs Above Average (OAA) in 133 attempts in center, while Langford posted 5 OAA in 121 attempts, along with an impressive 5 OAA in 212 attempts as a left fielder.
Chris Young, the Rangers' president of baseball operations, has confirmed the decision, with MLB Network's Tom Verducci noting the team's enthusiasm for Carter. "They want [Evan Carter] to be the everyday center fielder," Verducci stated. "They love what they're seeing out of [him]."
The plan for Carter to face left-handed pitching more often in 2026 was already in place, but now it's clear he'll be doing so from center field. He'll make his start in center during the Rangers' spring training game against the Kansas City Royals.
While Langford was technically superior by OAA metrics last year, the gap was minimal. The combination of Carter in center and Langford in left promises a formidable defensive outfield for the Rangers, even with Brandon Nimmo in right field, who has become a below-average defender.
The decision to start Carter in center isn't entirely unexpected. Despite limited action last year, Carter exclusively played center field. Langford's strong performance sparked debate among fans, but the choice reflects the team's confidence in Carter's abilities.
Looking at the bigger picture, if Carter, Langford, and Nimmo stay healthy, the Rangers could boast one of the best outfields in MLB. Both Carter and Langford are elite defenders, while Nimmo, despite a -1 OAA last year, adds an above-average bat to the lineup. He slashed .262/.324/.436 with 25 home runs and 92 RBIs, maintaining an OPS+ above 100 throughout his career.
Langford, at 24, delivered a solid offensive performance last season with a .241/.344/.431 slash line, 22 homers, and 22 stolen bases. His consistency since his rookie season highlights his value to the team.
Carter, now 23, has faced challenges replicating his breakout performance from late 2023 due to injuries. However, he still managed a respectable .247/.336/.392 slash line in 2025. If he maintains his defensive prowess and hits as he did last season, Carter could be a pivotal player for the Rangers, with the potential to elevate his game even further.