With spring training in full swing, the battle for starting positions across MLB is heating up, particularly in the AL West. The Houston Astros are reconsidering Jose Altuve's role, with potential shifts to left field following Alex Bregman's departure, raising fantasy stakes for second base options like Mauricio Dubon and Brendan Rodgers.

In Los Angeles, the Angels face uncertainty at shortstop with Zach Neto sidelined, placing Luis Rengifo in a favorable position for daily at-bats. Meanwhile, the Athletics are looking to Seth Brown for left field duties amidst a crowded roster, and the Mariners' Mitch Garver and Mitch Haniger aim to rebound from poor seasons as they vie for designated hitter spots. The Rangers, on the other hand, are eager to see how Evan Carter performs in center field, especially with Adolis Garcia's injury.

The Texas Rangers are making significant roster decisions ahead of the 2024 season, recently reassigning 10 players to minor league camp, including top prospect Sebastian Walcott and 2024 first-round pick Malcolm Moore. Walcott showcased his potential by hitting .500 with three doubles during the Cactus League, while Moore impressed with his eagerness to learn from veterans. Other reassigned players include pitchers Dane Acker and Skylar Hales, as well as catcher Cooper Johnson.

The Rangers also saw the unofficial debut of left-hander Robert Garcia, who pitched a scoreless inning in relief of Nathan Eovaldi. Meanwhile, Evan Carter is working to improve against left-handed pitchers, recording promising hits in the latest games. Jake Burger, having impressed defensively at first base and at the plate, looks to solidify his role within the team.

Spring training is expected to improve for the Texas Rangers hitters, who faced an abysmal start, batting a mere .129 over their first two games, including a 6-1 defeat to the San Francisco Giants. Jonah Heim, Ezequiel Duran, Dustin Harris, and Justin Foscue each accounted for one hit among the team’s total of four, with 11 strikeouts and no walks, highlighting a struggle to find their rhythm.

Evan Carter and Adolis García encountered familiar challenges at the plate, striking out multiple times against left-handed pitchers. Carter notably struck out against veteran Enny Romero, while García struggled against fastballs. Jack Leiter stood out with impressive velocity in his first outing, indicating potential for a rotation spot, but he must refine his approach to finish off batters effectively.

The Texas Rangers are aiming to reclaim their position at the summit of the American League after a championship-winning season in 2023. The journey, however, has been tumultuous, marred by injuries that thwarted their playoff ambitions in 2024. A significant concern lies with Evan Carter, a promising outfielder whose performance was hampered by a back injury, limiting him to just 45 games. Despite a stellar showing in 2023, where he played a pivotal role in the Rangers' World Series victory, his health has become a point of contention.

Carter's injury, classified as a stress reaction, led to an extended absence as he was placed on the injured list. While details about his condition remain vague, Carter insists he is ready for the new season, expressing confidence in his recovery. The Rangers' success in upcoming seasons may hinge on keeping key players like Carter healthy and on the field.

Texas Rangers President of Baseball Operations Chris Young is actively reshaping the team's roster following a disappointing season. Over the weekend, the Rangers traded Nathaniel Lowe to acquire a left-handed reliever and signed veteran Joc Pederson to a two-year deal worth $37 million, pending a physical.

The team has also added catcher Kyle Higashioka and first baseman Jake Burger, aiming to enhance their offensive capabilities. Young emphasized the importance of building a lineup that can score effectively, while also focusing on improving the bullpen.