Texas Rangers' third baseman Josh Jung is making strides in his recovery from neck spasms, participating in baseball activities ahead of the game against the Tampa Bay Rays. After missing six games, Jung is set to begin a brief rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco, where he will start as designated hitter on Saturday and play the field on Sunday. Manager Bruce Bochy indicated that if all goes well during his rehab, Jung could rejoin the Rangers on their upcoming trip to Chicago, eligible to return from the injured list by Tuesday.

Jung's return is crucial for the Rangers, as the 27-year-old was off to a solid start this season, batting .429 with a run driven in before being sidelined. His previous injuries, including a significant wrist fracture last season, have raised concerns about his durability. However, this rehab stint could be pain-free, and fans are hopeful for a swift return.

The Texas Rangers have placed third baseman Josh Jung on the 10-day injured list due to recurring neck spasms, marking a worrying continuation of his injury woes. Jung had initially reported neck stiffness during spring training, which flared up after playing the opening days against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Bruce Bochy remains optimistic about Jung's potential return, suggesting the extra rest might be beneficial for him.

This injury is Jung's fourth stint on the injured list in just three seasons, having missed significant time previously due to wrist and thumb injuries. His absence has been felt profoundly, as he contributed significantly to the offense when healthy, holding a .765 OPS since the start of 2023, ranking third among Rangers hitters with at least 500 plate appearances.

The Texas Rangers, navigating a challenging start to the season, are now on their third-string third baseman after injuries have plagued their roster. Interim third baseman Josh Smith exited early in the game against the Boston Red Sox, following a collision with a wall while attempting to catch a pop-up from Triston Casas. Although Smith managed to finish the inning, he was eventually replaced by Ezequiel Duran, marking the third player to occupy the third base position in just three games.

The situation worsens as the Rangers' regular starter, Josh Jung, is sidelined due to a neck spasm. Jung's absence significantly impacts Texas' batting lineup and infield defense. Meanwhile, Smith, known for his versatility, won a Silver Slugger last season and has been a key utility player. If he faces an extended recovery, the Rangers may look to minor league signee Sam Haggerty for further depth at the position, adding another layer of uncertainty to the team's early-season dynamics.

Josh Jung's early-season struggles continue as he has been sidelined with neck spasms. The Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy noted the possibility of Jung needing to go on the injured list, indicating that they want to monitor the situation closely. Jung, who had previously shown promise with a .429 batting average in the first two games, re-aggravated his neck while making a defensive play that resulted in him leaving the game.

In his absence, Josh Smith stepped up to the plate at third base, and Ezequiel Duran could see action in the upcoming series finale. Historically, Jung has faced injuries, missing significant time last season due to a fractured wrist and has undergone multiple surgeries in recent years. The Rangers are hopeful that he won't have to miss extended time this season.

Josh Jung continues to face injury setbacks that have plagued him since entering the league. Following a promising start to the season, he is sidelined with neck spasms, which have kept him out of the Texas Rangers' lineup against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Bruce Bochy expressed uncertainty about whether Jung will require a stint on the injured list. This marks yet another injury for Jung, who struggled to stay healthy in previous seasons due to a fractured wrist, broken thumb, and torn labrum.

Despite his injury woes, Jung has shown potential as an effective hitter and defender, earning a spot in the 2023 All-Star Game. In his limited appearances this season, he had already recorded three hits and driven in a run. His absence has led to Josh Smith stepping in at third base, while Ezequiel Duran is expected to start in the series finale against Boston.