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Duran is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mariners.
Duran had started in seven of the Rangers' previous eight games, but he'll hit the bench Sunday for the second time in the series. Despite a slow start to the season, Josh Smith still appears to be viewed as the Rangers' top option at second base, though Duran will likely spell him against most left-handed pitching and should also continue to see semi-regular opportunities versus righties due to his ability to play all over the infield as well as both corner-outfield spots. Duran has been productive when called upon this season, slashing .289/.347/.422 with one home run and three stolen bases over 49 plate appearances.
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Rangers' Ezequiel Duran: Remains productive in loss
Rotowire
Duran started at second base and went 3-for-5 with a double and an RBI in Saturday's 7-3 loss to the Mariners.
Duran notched a run-scoring double in the ninth inning, as the Rangers mounted a comeback that eventually lost steam. He might have made the start against Seattle's George Kirby because he has a better track record against the right-hander than the Rangers' primary second baseman, the lefty-hitting Josh Smith. The start may also be a sign that Smith's season-opening slump (.177 average, 20 games) has left his starting spot vulnerable. Duran, who has played multiple positions, is slashing .289/.347/.422 over 17 games played.
After signing with the Kiwoom Heroes of the Korea Baseball Organization this winter, Smith made only two starts overseas before getting released by the club. He then returned stateside and quickly linked up with Miami on a minor-league deal; he'd previously made 16 appearances (one start) for the Marlins in 2020. During his three-month stint at Triple-A Jacksonville, Smith posted a 2.76 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in 32.2 innings, but those numbers apparently weren't good enough for him to earn a promotion to the big leagues. He'll presumably look to land a minor-league deal with another organization.
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