Rookie Success and Setbacks
ARLINGTON — After navigating a tough 2024 season, Evan Carter is brimming with hope and determination as he looks to the fresh opportunities that 2025 will bring.
Carter made a splash in his rookie year of 2023, quickly earning a reputation as one of MLB Pipeline’s top five prospects.
He dazzled fans with an impressive debut in September, wrapping up the regular season with a stellar .306 batting average and an eye-popping 1.058 OPS over 23 games.
His postseason performance was equally commendable; he held a .300 average and a .917 OPS, cementing his place as a crucial player in the Rangers’ World Series run.
However, the 2024 season didn’t unfold quite as he envisioned.
Instead of building on his rookie triumph, Carter faced a multitude of obstacles, including a slow start and a frustrating back injury that eventually forced him out of play.
Challenges and Recovery
At the recent Rangers Fan Fest, Carter opened up about the disappointment stemming from his inability to support his team.
He shared how tough it was to be sidelined, feeling the emotional strain of not contributing on the field.
The mental toll of his injury was heavy, but he also understood that setbacks are not uncommon in the world of sports.
Last season, Carter managed to appear in just 45 games and posted a disappointing .188/.272/.361 line, resulting in an OPS of .633.
While he didn’t attribute all his struggles solely to the injury, he admitted that the pain significantly intensified during late April and May.
This discomfort inhibited his performance, leading to a rut where he struggled to connect with the ball.
Carter noticed a marked change in his swing as the injury wore on.
A particularly challenging stretch left him hitless for nine consecutive games, clearly indicating that his physical condition was interfering with his game.
Ultimately, he realized that pushing through the pain may have exacerbated his injury.
A Positive Outlook for 2025
Despite the challenges he faced, Carter now views his 2024 season as a crucial learning opportunity.
He has taken the time to better understand his body and the mental hurdles that come with rehabilitation.
While the journey has been anything but easy, these experiences are poised to shape him into a more resilient player.
As the offseason is now in full swing, Carter is focusing on reclaiming the batting prowess that distinguished his 2023 season.
He shares the good news that he has fully recovered, with no training restrictions in sight.
Additionally, he has invested time in building his strength and adding muscle, laying a robust foundation for the upcoming season.
With anticipation buzzing, Carter is excitedly looking towards the 2025 season.
Just the thought of returning to the field sends a thrill through him, a testament to his eagerness to contribute once again.
After a lengthy hiatus from gameplay, he is ready to dive back in, and his infectious enthusiasm assures fans that he aims to make a significant mark in the year ahead.
