Rangers rookie Evan Carter batting third against Astros in ALCS Game 3 – The Daily Guardian
Texan baseball fans are in for an exciting Game 3 of the AL Championship Series between the Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros as Evan Carter moves up in the lineup. The move sees Carter hitting in the third spot, a high-profile position, for the Rangers. This decision comes as no surprise considering Carter’s outstanding performance in the postseason.
Carter currently holds the title of the team’s leader in the postseason with an impressive 1.236 OPS through 28 plate appearances. Such remarkable numbers make it a logical choice for the Rangers to give him a prominent role in their lineup.
However, there is a potential drawback with this change. Both Carter and Corey Seager, who hits in front of him, are left-handed. This could create an advantage for opposing left-handed pitchers. Nevertheless, the Rangers seem to have luck on their side as Houston does not have a lefty available to use. This diminishes the concern for the Rangers, who are confident in their new lineup configuration.
Carter’s journey to this key position has been quite remarkable. When he first made his debut in the majors back in September, he started in the No. 9 spot and only played against right-handed starters. But now, after proving himself and making a name for himself, he has earned a significant promotion.
This lineup change follows a similar strategy that the Rangers implemented in the Division Series with Mitch Garver, who was placed in the No. 3 spot to provide balance around Seager. It seems that the team is determined to create a cohesive lineup that can take on any challenge.
Carter did get a taste of the No. 3 spot in Game 2 of the ALCS, where he replaced Robbie Grossman, who started against a left-handed starter. Despite going 0 for 2 with a walk in that game, the Rangers have confidence in Carter’s abilities and are willing to give him another chance in this crucial position.
With the Rangers not being overly concerned about creating balance in the lineup against Houston, it is clear that they have faith in their players’ abilities to perform at their peak, regardless of the pitching they face. As Game 3 approaches, all eyes will be on Evan Carter as he takes on the challenge of the No. 3 spot in the lineup.
