As we gear up for the 2026 season, not all roster spots carry the same weight. While stars like Corey Seager and Jacob deGrom have earned some leeway, others are under the microscope. Let's dive into three Texas Rangers who need to start strong to secure their spots on the 40-man roster.
Josh Jung - 3B
Josh Jung finds himself at a crossroads. After returning from an early injury, he’s shown promise in his recent at-bats in Surprise.
However, his past inconsistency and frequent trips to the IL have put him on a short leash. Last season, Jung struggled to find his rhythm, resulting in a demotion to the minors and a benching by then-manager Bruce Bochy.
As a former All-Star, expectations are high, but Jung has exhausted the organization’s patience. A strong start is crucial for him to regain trust and solidify his position.
Ezequiel Durán - UTL
Ezequiel Durán is no stranger to pressure, often finding himself as the last man on the bench in a utility role. His performance last year left much to be desired, with a .224/.266/.293 slash line and no home runs.
With Josh Smith transitioning to second base, Durán has a slight edge, but he faces competition from Sam Haggerty and promising prospect Cam Cauley, who impressed in spring training. Durán needs to make an impact early to maintain his spot.
Kumar Rocker - SP
Kumar Rocker delivered a solid performance against the Royals, pitching four innings with six strikeouts and only one run allowed. His change-up was particularly effective, showcasing his potential.
However, the competition for the fifth starter spot is fierce, and Rocker might find himself edged out if Jacob Latz gets the nod. While the Rangers aren't ready to give up on him, Rocker may benefit from consistent starts in the minors to further his development.
As the season unfolds, these players will need to prove their worth and seize their opportunities. The pressure is on, and how they respond could shape their futures with the Rangers.