The Texas Rangers are entering a critical portion of the 2026 MLB season, and every game matters as they fight to secure a spot in October. Unfortunately for Texas, the team just lost one of its most important pieces at a particularly difficult time.
The Rangers announced that right-hander Nathan Eovaldi has been placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to August 9, because of right posterior elbow inflammation.
It’s the type of injury that could become a major storyline depending on how Eovaldi responds.
Feb 20, 2026; Surprise, Arizona, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Nathan Eovaldi (17) delivers to the plate in the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Texas currently sits at 59-59, putting the Rangers just half a game behind the Houston Astros in the American League West.
They’re also holding the final AL Wild Card spot, but the margin for error is extremely small. The Rangers are only one game ahead of the Detroit Tigers, with several other teams still within striking distance.
That makes losing a starting pitcher of Eovaldi’s caliber particularly problematic.
A 15-day absence isn’t necessarily disastrous, especially this late in the season when teams can maneuver their rotations. But if the elbow inflammation turns into something more serious or keeps Eovaldi sidelined beyond the initial timeline, the consequences could be significant.
Texas needs every advantage it can get during what has become a crowded postseason race.
Jul 25, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers pitcher Nathan Eovaldi (17) delivers a pitch to the Seattle Mariners during the first inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-Imagn Images
The Rangers also have to consider the bigger picture with Eovaldi.
2027 is the final year of his contract, making his health particularly important to the organization moving forward. If this injury proves to be minor and Eovaldi returns after the minimum 15 days, the Rangers can breathe a sigh of relief.
If it becomes a long-term issue, however, the situation changes considerably.
At this point, there’s no reason to assume the worst. But with Texas fighting for its postseason life, losing Eovaldi—even temporarily—is far from ideal.
The Rangers have worked too hard to put themselves in playoff position to let injuries derail their season now.
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