The Texas Rangers are set to promote outfielder Alejandro Osuna, as reported by Daniel Alvarez-Montes of El Extrabase. This move comes in light of designated hitter Joc Pederson sustaining a fractured right hand during a game against the White Sox, which is expected to sideline him for about six weeks. Osuna, currently not listed on the 40-man roster, will require a corresponding move to create space.
Osuna, a 22-year-old who joined the Rangers from Mexico in 2021, has shown steady progress through the minor leagues. Across 373 games, he owns a promising .277/.370/.436 batting line. Last season, after moving up to Double-A, he excelled with a .306/.379/.523 performance over 57 games. Although his numbers were slightly less impressive during a recent stint back at Double-A (.283/.363/.409), he earned a promotion to Triple-A earlier this month, where he demonstrated an impressive .485 on-base percentage.
Ranked as the Rangers’ seventh-best prospect by MLB.com, Osuna has potential as a center fielder but has faced challenges against left-handed pitchers. Nevertheless, he made significant strides last year and has been praised for his plate approach, drawing comparisons to Alex Verdugo. While concerns about his power potential exist, he could provide a much-needed boost for the Rangers amid Pederson’s absence.
With a current record of 25-28, the Rangers are in fourth place in the AL West and seek to gain ground in the playoff race. It’s yet to be determined if Osuna will fill the DH role or step in for Carter in center field, but he may also provide rest for outfielders Wyatt Langford and Adolis Garcia. Regardless of where he plays, Osuna’s promotion offers a glimmer of hope for a team trying to turn its fortunes around.