Corey Seager, the once-prolific shortstop for the Texas Rangers, is facing a challenging season marred by injuries and a slump in performance. The 32-year-old, who signed a massive 10-year, $300 million deal with the Rangers in 2022, is currently struggling through his worst offensive campaign to date. With a .179 batting average and a 0-for-27 slump, Seager's performance has been a stark contrast to his MVP-level play with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Texas Rangers.
What makes Seager's situation particularly intriguing is the recent trend of soft tissue injuries. After playing in 151 games in 2022, Seager has been sidelined by thumb, sports hernia, and hamstring issues in the past few years, with an appendectomy also costing him most of September last season. These injuries, while not entirely unexpected given his age and the demands of the position, have raised questions about his durability and the Rangers' decision to sign him to such a substantial contract.
The back specialist visit is a concerning development, especially considering Seager's history of injuries. The team is waiting on the results of an MRI, but the fact that he's been sidelined for all three games of a weekend series against the Astros is a red flag. Seager's hard-hit rate, which has been above 50% in each of the past three campaigns, has slipped to 45.4% this year, and his average exit velocity has dropped by nearly 2 mph compared to 2025. These metrics suggest that Seager's power and contact skills are not where they should be, which could be a result of his injuries.
The Rangers have been forced to turn to utilityman Ezequiel Duran at shortstop while Seager is out. Duran, a versatile veteran, has been a solid contributor at the plate, slashing .270/.339/.441 with three home runs and four steals. However, the loss of Seager's offensive production has been significant, and the Rangers' depth at shortstop is limited. Cameron Cauley, a borderline top 10 prospect in the organization, has been bounced around the diamond at Triple-A, but his 82 wRC+ is not enough to fill the void left by Seager.
The situation raises a deeper question about the Rangers' long-term strategy. With Seager's contract and the team's recent struggles, the organization must decide whether to stick with him through his slump and injuries or explore other options. The Rangers' decision will have significant implications for their future, especially considering the team's aspirations for contention in the American League.
In my opinion, the Rangers' decision will come down to a careful balance between loyalty to a key player and the need to make the best possible decisions for the team's long-term success. While Seager's injuries and slump are concerning, the organization must also consider the potential consequences of trading or releasing him. The Rangers' front office will need to weigh the risks and rewards of each option and make a decision that best serves the team's interests.
