Texas Rangers Lose Josh Jung to Broken Hand in Tight Title Race

Massive Blow for Rangers as Josh Jung Suffers Broken Hand

The Texas Rangers have suffered a major setback in their tight race for the American League West title. Third baseman Josh Jung has been placed on the ten day injured list with a broken right hand. This unfortunate injury comes with only two games remaining in the regular season.

The injury happened during Friday's game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Jung was hit in the hand by a pitch from Twins starter Joe Ryan in the first inning. Although he stayed in the game to score a run in that inning, he was later replaced by a pinch hitter.

Roster Changes and Jung's Impact

Jung has been a key player for Texas this season. He was batting .299 with 12 home runs, 42 RBIs, and an .827 OPS in 104 games. He also missed the entire month of August with a left calf strain. He returned in great form, batting .341 with 15 hits in 44 at bats over his last 12 games.

To cover for his absence, the Rangers have made several roster moves. They recalled left hander Robby Ahlstrom and catcher Logan O'Hoppe from Triple A Round Rock. Additionally, right hander Gavin Collyer was optioned to the Arizona Complex League Rangers. Ahlstrom has made 42 relief appearances for Texas, posting a 6.08 ERA in 37 innings. O'Hoppe was acquired from the Angels in July and has appeared in 10 games during his first stint with Texas.

Tight Battle at the Top

This injury comes at a very difficult time for Texas. The Rangers entered Saturday tied with the Houston Astros for the lead in the American League West. However, the Astros hold the tiebreaker over the Rangers, which means Texas has no room for error as they try to secure the division title.