Rangers fans should be bullish on this rookie taking big leap in 2025

Opting to remain positive despite injuries is not an easy task for fans, and it is especially difficult for the players involved. This will be true for Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter as he attempts to enter spring training fully recharged.

It would be easy to write off Carter considering he dealt with a serious back issue last season. But, the 22-year-old's ability to hit for contact and evolving plate discipline could help him have a year worth remembering.

Carter earned a .188 batting average and only collected five home runs and 15 RBIs across 45 games. A year prior, he ended the regular season with a .306 average and a .413 OBP across 23 contests. The Tennessee native was also a crucial component of the Rangers' 2023 World Series victory. Through 17 Postseason games, Carter hit .300, cracked one home run, and drove in six RBIs.

Rangers fans should be bullish on this rookie taking big leap in 2025

When one looks at what Carter has been able to do when he's healthy, it becomes apparent that his offensive success will rely on a contact-based approach. This is not to say that he does not have a certain amount of slug to his game, but he will be most effective if he attempts to simply get on base.

The former second-round draft pick had a Chase% of 18.5 and a K% of 26.5 last season. Carter's Sprint Speed also ranked in the 97th percentile. Cutting down on strikeouts and being more selective could aid his OBP and provide others like Adolis Garcia or Corey Seager with the chance to drive in runs.

In 2023, Carter's Chase% was lower than it was in 2024 and his batting average on balls in play was also significantly higher. Even though the sample sizes vary, his early results should be something that inform his future tactics.

With how many bats the Rangers boast, Carter does not have to swing for the fences. Of course, Texas will gladly take whatever power he can give, but the lefty may be more helpful in 2025 if he chooses to be a more traditional bat.