The Texas Rangers will have to close out the World Series without their ALCS MVP and future Hall of Fame starter.
Both Adolis Garcia and Max Scherzer have been removed from the Texas Rangers’ roster due to injuries. They are out for the remainder of the World Series. Utilityman Ezequiel Duran and left-handed reliever Brock Burke will replace them.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 31, 2023
Garcia and Scherzer both left early in the Rangers’ Game 3 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Scherzer left after three innings because of back spasms, while Garcia departed after straining his oblique on an eighth-inning at-bat.
Texas decided that both of them wouldn’t be healthy by the weekend, when the teams are scheduled to play Games 6 and 8, if necessary. If the series goes that far, expect manager Bruce Bochy to start Game 3’s hero out of the bullpen, Jon Gray.
To replace two irreplaceable players, the Rangers opted for flexibility. 24-year-old utility man Ezequiel Duran replaces Garcia. He hit well this year, amassing 14 home runs and 46 RBI while playing six positions — everywhere but catcher and center field.
Scherzer’s replacement is Brock Burke, a lefty specialist who had a 4.37 ERA in 53 games for the Rangers. In his one playoff appearance, the Baltimore Orioles tagged Burke for two runs in one-third of an inning during the Division Series.
In the field, Travis Jankowski replaced Garcia in right for Game 4, with DH Mitch Garver moving up in the lineup.
It’s quite a double blow as the Rangers try to win their first World Series without their hottest hitter. Without Scherzer, they’re under pressure not just to win — but to get it done in six games.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!