The Texas Rangers saw their biggest bullpen reinforcements hit a setback when Chris Martin’s left calf flared up during a live session at Globe Life Field, the second such interruption in two rampups. With five weeks left in the season, the would-be reliever’s return remains uncertain as Bochy continues to push him through rehab boxes. Meanwhile Adolis Garcia returned from the injured list, restoring a dangerous middle-of-order presence for a lineup chasing late-season momentum.

The combo of a delayed Martin and a reactivated Garcia shapes Texas’s late-season outlook, emphasizing bullpen depth and timely hitting as the team fights to secure a playoff push. Fantasy managers should weigh bullpen roles and rehab timelines closely, especially for holds and saves, as Texas navigates a tightening window to finish strong.

The Boston Red Sox are making waves in the American League, winning six consecutive games to tie with the Seattle Mariners for the third Wild Card spot in the AL. They've also closed the gap to 5.5 games behind the Toronto Blue Jays for the AL East lead. As the trade deadline approaches, Boston's primary need is bullpen help, as their relievers, apart from Aroldis Chapman, are struggling with walks.

Former Red Sox reliever Chris Martin has emerged as a potential trade target. At 39, Martin is still performing well, boasting a 2.35 ERA with the Texas Rangers this season. His experience and low hard-contact rate make him an attractive option to bolster Boston's bullpen. He previously had a 1.05 ERA in his first year with the Red Sox in 2023.

As the Philadelphia Phillies eye the trade deadline with a narrow half-game lead in the NL East, they appear ready to make significant moves to enhance their postseason chances. With an aging core, the Phillies need to bolster their outfield offense and improve their late-inning relief pitching. A proposed blockbuster trade from Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer suggests acquiring Adolis García of the Texas Rangers along with relief pitcher Chris Martin.

García, a dynamic slugger known for his power, would replace Max Kepler in left field, allowing Bryce Harper to maintain his role at first base. Despite a subpar season so far, García’s offensive metrics indicate that he could thrive at Citizens Bank Park. Martin, with a solid ERA, would provide much-needed support to a bullpen struggling with blown saves. In return, the Rangers would receive promising prospects Jean Cabrera and Aroon Escobar, highlighting the Phillies' commitment to win now.

Kumar Rocker, the Texas Rangers rookie, showcased resilience during an eventful fifth inning against the Chicago White Sox. After striking out Michael A. Taylor, Rocker experienced cramping, prompting a mound visit. In a quirky turn, first baseman Jake Burger provided Rocker with pickle juice, which he consumed enthusiastically while a ball boy delivered a third bottle, inadvertently resulting in a mound visit charge against the Rangers.

Despite the distractions, Rocker pitched five scoreless innings, giving up four hits and striking out six, and he was in line for the win when he was replaced by Chris Martin in the sixth. The Rangers had a 2-0 lead at that point, but Martin allowed a solo homer to Miguel Vargas. This performance came as Rocker stepped in for Tyler Mahle, who was placed on the injured list.

The Texas Rangers faced a disappointing 4-3 loss against the Houston Astros, marking a stark contrast from the team's initial hope for a series win. Despite Jack Leiter's impressive start, where he no-hit the Astros for over six innings, the Rangers' bullpen faltered once again, leading to a late-game collapse.

Leiter's performance was noteworthy, allowing only three hits and retiring many batters with minimal pitches. However, Chris Martin's early exit after just one pitch in the eighth inning set the stage for the Astros' comeback, spearheaded by Isaac Paredes' go-ahead home run.

The Rangers managed to score three runs in the fourth, but their overall offense dwindled, raising questions about their hitting consistency. Next, they embark on a challenging road trip against the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox, aiming to regain momentum.