Rangers Hit with Injury Setback as Top Prospect Sebastian Walcott Set for Shoulder Surgery
Bradford eyes May return, Castellanos linked to Texas, and Langford could miss time for WBC
The Texas Rangers’ spring is off to a tough start, with some key developments that could shape the early outlook of their 2026 campaign.
Sebastian Walcott to Miss Significant Time After Shoulder Surgery
The most significant blow came with the news that Sebastian Walcott, the Rangers’ top-ranked prospect, will undergo shoulder surgery to repair a torn UCL. The injury is expected to sideline him for all or most of the 2026 season.
This is a tough pill to swallow for Texas. Walcott was on a trajectory that could have had him knocking on the big-league door later this year, especially if the Rangers found themselves in need of an offensive spark midseason. The 18-year-old infielder has been turning heads with his advanced approach at the plate and raw tools, and while development timelines can vary, there was a legitimate sense that he could force his way into the conversation sooner rather than later.
Now, that timeline hits pause. The Rangers will have to navigate 2026 without the possibility of a Walcott call-up, and his rehab will be one of the key long-term storylines to watch as the organization continues to build around its young core.
Cody Bradford Tracking Toward May Return
On the pitching side, there’s better news. Cody Bradford, the left-hander who missed all of 2025 after undergoing an internal brace procedure, remains on track for a May return.
Bradford recently threw a bullpen session, a promising step in his recovery. He’s expected to begin the season in the minors to ramp back up, but if all goes well, he could be back in the big leagues by late spring.
What role he’ll play once he returns is still up in the air. Whether he slots into the rotation or the bullpen will likely depend on how the rest of the staff holds up health-wise. But having Bradford back in the mix gives the Rangers some much-needed depth and flexibility - and if he can recapture the form he flashed before the injury, he could be a real asset.
Nick Castellanos Could Be a Fit in Texas
One name to keep an eye on: Nick Castellanos. The veteran outfielder was recently released by the Phillies, and there’s buzz that the Rangers could be a potential landing spot.
Castellanos had a rocky end to his time in Philadelphia, reportedly clashing with team rules and drawing attention for bringing beer into the dugout after being pulled from a game. But on the field, he still brings value - particularly as a right-handed bat who could help balance a Rangers lineup that leans left-handed.
If Texas were to pursue him, it would likely be on a league-minimum deal, which makes the risk relatively low. The upside?
A proven bat with postseason experience who could slot in as a corner outfielder or DH option. It’s something to monitor as the front office evaluates potential depth additions heading into camp.
Langford May Miss Spring Training Time for WBC
Another wrinkle to the Rangers’ spring plans: Wyatt Langford might not be in camp for its entirety.
With Corbin Carroll suffering a broken hamate bone during live BP this week, Team USA is now looking for a replacement outfielder for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Langford is reportedly one of the top candidates being considered, alongside names like Steven Kwan, Riley Greene, and James Wood.
Langford, who made a strong impression in his debut season, is arguably the most complete outfielder of the group. If selected, he’d miss part of Spring Training with the Rangers while representing the United States on the international stage.
It’s a great opportunity for Langford to showcase his talent on a global platform - but for Texas, it means fewer reps with the big-league club during a critical preparation period. Still, the experience could be invaluable for a young star whose ceiling continues to rise.
The Rangers’ spring is already shaping up to be eventful - from injury setbacks to intriguing roster possibilities. With Walcott sidelined, Bradford ramping up, Castellanos on the radar, and Langford possibly heading to the WBC, there’s no shortage of storylines as Texas gears up for another competitive season.