ARLINGTON, Texas — As the Texas Rangers continue navigating a stretch filled with injuries and roster adjustments, Tuesday brought mixed news: promising steps for one player, and a frustrating delay for another.
Reliever Chris Martin Experiences Calf Pain During Live BP
Veteran right-handed reliever Chris Martin, who has been working his way back from a left calf strain, experienced a setback during his first live batting practice session at Globe Life Field on Tuesday. Although it was Martin’s third time throwing off a mound in five days, it was the first time he faced live hitters — a significant step toward returning to action.
Unfortunately, the session didn’t go as planned.
According to The Dallas Morning News’ Shawn McFarland, Martin felt discomfort in his calf during the workout. As a result, his progression toward a rehab assignment has been temporarily paused.
“I’m not going to push it, re-injure it again and have another ordeal,” Martin told reporters after the session.
Martin, 39, reported no issues after bullpen sessions on Friday and Sunday, but the increased intensity of facing live hitters appeared to be too much for the recovering calf. No timeline has been given for when he might resume activity, though he was nearing the final stage before beginning a formal rehab assignment.
Martin has been on the 10-day injured list since July 21, and this marks his second IL stint of the season. Earlier, he missed time between May 20 and June 5 due to right shoulder fatigue.
Despite a 1-6 record, Martin has been one of the Rangers’ most effective relievers in 2025, posting a 2.36 ERA over 39 appearances, with 36 strikeouts and just six walks across 34.1 innings. Opponents have hit just .248 against him, and he’s recorded 12 holds and two saves in four opportunities, along with a tidy 1.14 WHIP.
Rangers Reinforce Bullpen Amid Martin’s Absence
In Martin’s absence, the Rangers addressed their bullpen concerns at the trade deadline, acquiring veterans Phil Maton and Danny Coulombe. Both have quickly taken on key roles, helping cover high-leverage innings, though the team has yet to establish a consistent closer.
The loss of Martin, even temporarily, continues to test Texas’ bullpen depth as they push for postseason positioning.
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Evan Carter Begins Rehab Assignment in Frisco
In more encouraging news, outfielder Evan Carter is set to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco on Tuesday. Carter has been out since August 2 with back spasms, also marking his second trip to the IL this season. He previously missed time from May 18 to June 3 with a right quad strain.
Carter, 22, completed a live batting practice session on Monday, clearing the way for his assignment. Though the team hasn’t specified how long the stint will last, Carter could rejoin the big-league roster soon — especially with the Rangers set to begin a road trip to Toronto later this week.
Through 55 games in 2025, Carter is slashing .238/.323/.381 with four home runs and 21 RBIs, already surpassing his rookie totals in RBIs from last season.
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What’s Next for the Rangers?
With Martin’s return delayed and Carter’s status improving, the Rangers face both challenges and opportunities. While the bullpen absorbs another blow, the lineup could soon regain a key bat as Carter works his way back.
For now, all eyes remain on Martin’s recovery timeline and whether the veteran can overcome this setback and return to the mound before the stretch run.
