How does manager Bruce Bochy work utilityman Ezequiel Duran into the lineup for the Texas Rangers? Right now, he’s not sure. That’s not a problem for the Rangers at the start of spring training. It’s possibly a good thing, given that the Rangers are stacked across multiple levels to where playing time is a gift instead of a necessity like in years past. Texas returns eight starters from its World Series roster, including rookie left fielder and spark plug Evan Carter. Wyatt Langford and Justin Foscue are competing for a spot — perhaps as the permanent designated hitter — on the 26-man roster.
And then there’s Duran, who flashed promising power in place of Corey Seager at shortstop. He was exceptional at the plate with three home runs and a .357/.390/.714 slash line in 26 spring games. The 24-year-old is looking for his spot on the field. So is Bochy. Now comes the part of figuring out where the two can co-exist. “Wherever they put me, I’m ready to play,” Duran said Thursday through interpreter Raul Cardenas. Bochy has time — and innings — to figure out Duran’s ideal spot. It could be more of the same from last spring when Duran filled in everywhere in the Cactus League.
He played 58 innings at third base, 28 innings in left field, 27 innings at shortstop, 11 innings at second base, and one inning in right field. With Seager and Josh Jung sidelined with injuries this spring, most of his work will come on the left side of the field this spring. Seager and Jung are expected to be cleared for Opening Day. Neither All-Star is in jeopardy of losing their spot in the lineup. Seager missed 31 games in 2023 and still finished second in American League MVP voting. He’s locked up in Arlington for another seven years. Second base likely is another position off the table after Marcus Semien led the American League with 185 hits and has a long-term deal.
