Texas Rangers may have setback with 2022 plans

Spring training has not yet begun. Players may be participating in mini camps or training on their own, but official activities have yet to begin. However, as the Texas Rangers learned, that does not mean that injuries will not occur.

Such was the case on Friday. The Rangers announced that prospect Josh Jung was shut down due to a left labral strain suffered while lifting weights, and there has yet to be any word regarding his treatment or a timetable for his return.

Texas Rangers face setback in 2022 plans

It is entirely possible that this injury is just a minor bump in the road. He is to undergo more tests next week and is just resting for now. This could just be a scare for one of their top prospects and their plans for the upcoming season.

But this could end up being a serious problem as well. Jung may not start the season in Arlington, but he is expected to make his debut at some point this year. His .326/.398/.592 batting line in 342 plate appearances between Double-A and Triple-A, including 19 homers and 22 doubles, seemingly indicates that his bat is ready.

His proximately to the majors has led to some speculation about Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Kiner-Falefa is currently penciled in as the Rangers’ third baseman, but that would change once Jung is ready. At that point, he would either be a super utility man or a possible trade chip as the Rangers look to upgrade other areas, especially their pitching staff.

Those plans now come down to Jung’s health. If this is just a minor setback as they would hope, then those trade talks could begin once again. Jung’s powerful bat would be an upgrade in a lineup that still needs plenty of work as well.

The Texas Rangers expect that Josh Jung will be a part of their lineup in 2022. His injury status could change those plans.