Evan Carter’s journey with the Texas Rangers has been a rollercoaster since his electrifying debut in 2023, where he played a pivotal role in securing the franchise’s first World Series title. However, the young outfielder has faced a series of health setbacks, limiting his appearances on the field.

In 2024, Carter managed only 45 games due to persistent back issues. The following year saw him start with Triple-A Round Rock and endure three stints on the injured list, dealing with a quad strain, back spasms, and a broken wrist.

Despite these challenges, Carter, now 23, has shown glimpses of his potential. While he hasn’t quite reached the heights of his 2023 postseason performance, where he posted a .300/.417/.500 slash line, his contribution last season was still noteworthy. In limited action, he slashed .247/.336/.392 with an impressive 114 OPS+ and demonstrated defensive prowess with 4 Outs Above Average as a center fielder.

As the 2026 season approaches, Carter is poised to take on the role of the Rangers’ starting center fielder, and he’s feeling optimistic about his health during spring training.

“Health-wise, I feel really, really good,” Carter shared with reporters, including MLB.com’s Kennedi Landry, ahead of his arrival in Arizona. “I’m excited about it.

I’m trying not to jinx anything or get too giddy, but feel really good. I feel like I’ve kind of been telling myself that I felt good in the past.

I feel really good right now.”

A fully fit Evan Carter could be a game-changer for the Rangers, elevating them to World Series contenders in 2026. While health remains a critical factor for any team, the Rangers’ potential lineup, featuring Carter alongside stars like Corey Seager, Brandon Nimmo, and Wyatt Langford, could be among the league’s most formidable.

Complementing this potent lineup is a starting rotation that might just be the best in MLB. With Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi leading the charge as a dominant one-two punch, and MacKenzie Gore and Jack Leiter providing solid depth with potential ace capabilities, the Rangers’ pitching staff is stacked. Add in Kumar Rocker and Jacob Latz as reliable fifth-starter options, and the eventual returns of Cody Bradford and Jordan Montgomery, and the team’s depth is impressive.

If Carter’s renewed confidence in his health translates into a full season, Rangers fans have plenty to look forward to as the playoffs loom. A healthy Carter could very well be the key to another championship run.