Veteran right-handed pitcher Nathan Eovaldi will remain day-to-day after being scratched from the Texas Rangers’ recent game against the Detroit Tigers. The 35-year-old, now in his 14th Major League Baseball season, was expected to start Sunday Night Baseball against the American League leaders but was held out as a precaution.
Following Texas’s narrow 2–1 defeat, Rangers manager Bruce Bochy emphasized the importance of avoiding any setbacks with Eovaldi’s condition, noting cautious management moving forward. Bochy said,
The last thing we want him to do is push this and have a setback.
This approach reflects the team’s intent to prioritize Eovaldi’s health over immediate availability, with an initial target for his return around Wednesday.
Eovaldi’s Role and Performance This Season for Texas
Since joining the Rangers in 2023, Eovaldi has been a vital part of the starting rotation, adding a second World Series title to his resume and earning another All-Star selection. This season, he has become a dependable second option behind ace Jacob deGrom, compiling a 7–3 record with an impressive 1.58 ERA and 94 strikeouts over 16 starts.
His experience spans six different MLB organizations since his debut in 2011, with a career highlight during his tenure with the Boston Red Sox where he contributed to their World Series championship and achieved his first All-Star appearance at age 31. His consistent performance led the Rangers to secure his services through 2027 with a significant three-year, $75 million contract extension signed last offseason.
Implications for Texas Rangers’ Playoff Aspirations
The Rangers currently hold a .500 record at 50–50 and find themselves 3.5 games behind the final American League Wild Card position. As they approach a crucial stretch of their schedule, the health and availability of key players like Eovaldi will directly influence their ability to contend.
With the club facing vital matchups, uncertainty surrounding Eovaldi’s status adds pressure on the pitching staff. The front office may need to reassess roster strategies at the trade deadline to bolster the team’s playoff chances. Maintaining Eovaldi’s health is essential for sustaining their competitiveness down the stretch as they strive to keep pace with division rivals and secure a postseason berth.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many Tommy John surgeries has Nathan Eovaldi had?
A. Over his 13 seasons, he started 30 games just twice. He also faced serious health issues, like two Tommy John surgeries and several shoulder injuries.
Q. How many times has Nathan Eovaldi had Tommy John surgery?
A. A few days after that, the Yankees revealed that Eovaldi had his second Tommy John surgery.