According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Rangers will bring up infield prospect Justin Foscue before today’s game, replacing third baseman Josh Jung, who’s going to the injured list due to a broken wrist from being hit by a pitch. This will mark Foscue’s first appearance in the majors.
Foscue, aged 25, is known for his batting skills rather than power. He has shown impressive ability to make contact in the past two seasons in higher minor leagues, batting .288/.367/.483 in Double-A in 2022 and .266/.394/.468 in Triple-A in the previous year. He had a low strikeout rate of 14.3% in Double-A and even better 12.4% in Triple-A in 2023, with a high walk rate of 15.1%.
Although Foscue doesn’t possess significant power typically seen in batting-oriented prospects, he managed to hit 15 and 18 home runs in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Additionally, he recorded 31 doubles in each of the past two seasons and contributed five triples. Despite below-average speed, he stole 14 bases in Triple-A last year but was caught stealing 7 times.
Foscue’s defensive capabilities have been criticized throughout his career, primarily playing second base but also spending time at third and first base. He isn’t considered a strong defender at any position. While his offensive potential is praised, his defensive limitations restrict his versatility.
The Rangers aren’t likely bringing up Foscue just to have him on the bench. With Jung out, there’s a chance he could share time with Ezequiel Duran at third base, although both are right-handed hitters, making a traditional platoon less likely. Foscue could also fill in for Nathaniel Lowe, particularly against left-handed pitching, and could see time at designated hitter and third base against right-handed pitching.
In terms of service time, Foscue’s early call-up means he could accrue a full year if he stays in the majors consistently. He would be eligible for arbitration after the 2026 season and free agency after the 2029 season. However, a short stint back in the minors could delay his free agency.
Given the crowded infield in Texas with Jung, Semien, Lowe, and Seager, Foscue might return to Triple-A if he struggles initially. However, if he performs well, he could carve out a regular role as a designated hitter while occasionally filling in around the infield.
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