The Texas Rangers have called up utility player Ezequiel Duran from Triple-A Round Rock to replace outfielder Kevin Pillar, who has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to lower back inflammation. Duran has had a strong performance at Round Rock, boasting a .345 batting average with four home runs and 13 runs scored over the last 14 games. This marks Duran’s third stint with the Rangers this season, where he has played all four infield positions but has struggled in the majors with just one RBI in 14 at-bats.

Duran was initially part of Texas' opening day roster this season and has shown versatility, having made multiple starts at both shortstop and third base. While his major league batting average stands at .253 over four seasons, his power numbers remain respectable with 22 home runs and 92 RBIs in 279 games. His return adds depth to the Rangers as they navigate through injury concerns.

The Texas Rangers have placed veteran outfielder Kevin Pillar on the 10-day injured list due to a back strain, which will keep him sidelined for at least a few days. This move is retroactive to May 4, and Pillar's earliest return date is May 14. During his stint with the Rangers this season, Pillar has played 18 games, hitting .237 with two doubles and one RBI. In his absence, Ezequiel Duran is being recalled from Triple-A Round Rock, although reports indicate he might not reach Boston in time for the team's upcoming game against the Red Sox.

The Texas Rangers are grappling with a center field dilemma as Leody Taveras loses favor and Evan Carter remains in AAA while Kevin Pillar only plays against left-handed pitchers. Josh Smith, a versatile utility player, has been filling in, having played multiple positions this season. Despite starting in center field recently, Rangers manager Bruce Bochy indicated that they prefer Smith’s flexibility over committing him to a single role.

This flexibility is key for a team that has battled injuries. Smith has made several starts filling in for Corey Seager, who recently returned from injury. Meanwhile, Evan Carter is showing promise in the minor leagues, raising questions about his next call-up and potential role. As the Rangers navigate their roster challenges, Smith's adaptability remains a valuable asset.

The Texas Rangers are experimenting with their batting order, having used four different leadoff hitters in the past eight games compared to just three in the previous two seasons under manager Bruce Bochy. Recently, rookie Wyatt Langford has taken on the leadoff role, capitalizing on his strong early-season performance, boasting a .324 batting average and leading the team with six home runs. With Kevin Pillar sidelined due to back issues, Langford's debut in the leadoff spot reflects the team’s need for offensive production as they currently rank last in runs scored this season.

Behind Langford, shortstop Josh Smith and catchers Kyle Higashioka and Jonah Heim have been pivotal hitters. Heim, in particular, stands out with a stellar OPS of 1.117 against left-handed pitchers. Despite their offensive struggles, the Rangers' pitching staff has been commendable, helping them navigate through an injury-riddled lineup.

Kevin Pillar, at 36, finds himself rejuvenated in a new role with the Texas Rangers after signing a minor league contract. He earned a spot on the opening day roster, filling the center field position and wearing the number once donned by Elvis Andrus. Pillar aims to prove his worth after a challenging season with the Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Angels, and describes the Rangers’ lineup as a perfect fit for his skills.

Pillar sees this Rangers team—favored to contend in the AL—as a chance to contribute meaningfully rather than playing selfish baseball, as he had to on last-place teams. With a strong track record against left-handers, he capitalized in the first game, driving in the season's first run. His defensive prowess and veteran experience could be pivotal for the Rangers as they seek a deep playoff run.