The Texas Rangers plan to give reliever Chris Martin a few days of rest after he couldn’t complete a live batting practice session.
Martin had aimed to throw 20 pitches in the session, which was meant to mimic game conditions at full intensity. However, his injured calf flared up, forcing him to cut the workout short on Saturday at Globe Life Field. Unlike bullpen sessions where he’s been throwing hard but not at full speed, this practice pushed him to 100%, leaving him visibly frustrated as he returned to the clubhouse in full uniform. Manager Bruce Bochy later provided more details on the situation.
Chris Martin’s Setback
Martin’s live batting practice session ended after about 15 pitches when his strained left calf flared up again, manager Bruce Bochy confirmed. The Rangers plan to give him a few days of rest before mapping out his next steps. Martin had already experienced a setback during his first live batting practice on August 10—his third throwing session in five days, following two bullpen sessions.
The 39-year-old reliever continues to feel discomfort in the area. “He’s still feeling some symptoms in that area,” Bochy said after Saturday’s session. “He’ll continue to work on it and see when we can get him back out there.”
Martin is one of three relievers currently on the injured list. Cole Winn is on the 15-day IL with right arm fatigue and is eligible to return on September 4, while Josh Sborz has been on the 60-day IL all season following right shoulder surgery and is currently on a rehab assignment.
Chris Martin’s Lost Season
Chris Martin has been on the 10-day injured list since July 21 with a left calf strain, marking his second stint on the IL this season. He previously missed time from May 20 to June 5 due to right shoulder fatigue.
Before the latest injury, Martin was one of the Rangers’ most dependable relievers. Despite a 1-6 record, he posted a 2.36 ERA across 39 games, recording 12 holds and converting two of four save opportunities. He struck out 36 batters, walked six, and held opponents to a .248 average over 34.1 innings, with a 1.14 WHIP.
Since his injury, the Rangers bolstered their bullpen at the trade deadline, acquiring right-hander Phil Maton and left-hander Danny Coulombe. Both have performed well, stepping into set-up roles for high-leverage innings, though the Rangers continue to operate without a designated closer.
