The Texas Rangers’ anticipated return of reliever Chris Martin has been delayed after he experienced a flare-up of his calf injury during live batting practice on Tuesday at Globe Life Field. Although Martin had been progressing through his rehab, the pain felt during this session means more time will be needed before he can return to game action.
Martin’s live batting practice took place ahead of the Rangers’ evening matchup against the Arizona Diamondbacks. It marked his first time throwing to hitters after multiple bullpen sessions in the previous five days. Unfortunately, the strain on his previously injured calf forced the team to pause his rehab ramp-up as he caught the injury anew.
Details on Martin’s Injury and Performance Before the Setback
Chris Martin has been sidelined since July 21 due to a left calf strain and remains on the 10-day injured list (IL). This marks his second stint on the IL in 2024, having previously missed time from May 20 to June 5 with right shoulder fatigue. Before his injury, Martin was one of the Rangers’ most effective relievers despite holding a 1-6 win-loss record.
Through 39 appearances, Martin maintained a 2.36 ERA with 36 strikeouts and only six walks across 34.1 innings, holding batters to a .248 average. He also recorded 12 holds and two saves, showcasing his value in high-leverage situations. Since his calf strain, the Rangers made strategic moves at the trade deadline by acquiring right-hander Phil Maton and left-hander Danny Coulombe, both of whom have contributed to stabilizing the bullpen.
Martin Reflects on the Injury and Next Steps
Addressing the injury setback, Martin emphasized his cautious approach moving forward, stating,
“I’m not going to push it, re-injure it again and have another ordeal,”
signaling his intent to avoid aggravating the calf further. He mentioned that during his bullpen sessions on Friday and Sunday, his calf felt fine, but the intensity of live batting practice, which brought him closer to full effort, proved too much.
The timeline for Martin’s next live pitching session remains uncertain, as this type of throwing represents the final obstacle before he can begin a rehab assignment. The Rangers and their fans will have to wait until Martin demonstrates sustained health before he can rejoin the major league roster.
Update on Carter’s Rehabilitation Progress
Meanwhile, another Texas Rangers player, Carter, is advancing through his rehab process after completing a successful live batting practice on Monday. He was scheduled to appear for the Rangers’ Double-A affiliate in Frisco for a rehab game on Tuesday. However, the length of his rehab stay remains unclear, especially since the Rangers depart for a road series in Toronto after their game on Wednesday.
Carter has been on the 10-day IL since August 2 due to back spasms. Though eligible to return on Tuesday, manager Bruce Bochy confirmed that Carter would first undergo a rehab assignment. This season, Carter has appeared in 55 games, posting a .238 batting average with a .323 on-base percentage and .381 slugging, while contributing four home runs and 21 RBIs—already surpassing his previous career highs in major league games and RBIs for a single season.
This is Carter’s second injury-related absence of the season, having spent time on the IL from May 18 to June 3 with a right quadriceps strain.
Implications of Martin’s Injury Setback on the Rangers’ Bullpen
Martin’s stalled comeback complicates the Rangers’ bullpen strategy as the team navigates the final weeks of the season. His effectiveness had been a key component in the relief corps, and depth remains crucial during this stretch. Although Maton and Coulombe have filled significant roles since joining via trade, the Rangers have yet to establish a firm closer amid ongoing roster adjustments.
The timing and severity of Martin’s injury flare-up highlight the fragility of pitchers recovering from muscle strains, emphasizing the patience required in managing such injuries. The next steps for Martin will include careful monitoring and possibly further rehabilitation before he can contribute again in major league games. His return will be integral as the Rangers aim to solidify their bullpen for the remainder of the season.