The Texas Rangers have announced that infielder Josh Smith is heading to the injured list due to a right glute strain, a move that opens the door for top prospect Justin Foscue to make his return to the big leagues.

Smith, who took over second base duties this season after Marcus Semien's departure, has struggled to find his rhythm in 2026. Through the early part of the campaign, he's posted a modest .217/.324/.239 slash line and has also faced some challenges defensively. However, there was a glimmer of hope in his last two games, where he went 4-for-7 with a walk—accounting for a significant 20% of his total hits this season. Unfortunately, that momentum will have to wait as he recovers.

Stepping into the lineup is Justin Foscue, the Rangers' first-round pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. The 26-year-old has been tearing it up at Triple-A Round Rock this season, slashing .287/.407/.426 with an impressive walk-to-strikeout ratio that shows his plate discipline. He's been versatile in the minors, splitting time between first base, second base, and designated hitter. Now, he'll look to improve on his career major league numbers—a tough .059/.094/.098 line—and prove he belongs at the highest level.

For Rangers fans, this is a chance to see one of the organization's promising young talents get regular at-bats. And for those following the team, it's a reminder that even in a tough stretch, baseball always offers new opportunities to shine.