Smith’s baserunning and on-base opportunities add speed and flexibility in the late innings, underscoring Texas’ depth and the upside of dynamic, multi-position players in a tight race.

Josh Smith moved back to the leadoff spot on Saturday, a role he relinquished briefly. His speed and on-base ability give the top of the Texas order a dynamic spark amid injuries.

Smith’s recent form shows him hitting around .206 with a .543 OPS in the last 20 games, spurring questions about leadoff duties and lineup protection as Seager’s status remains up in the air and the Rangers push for a playoff spot.

Smith moved from leadoff to the 9th, maintaining a reputation for quality at-bats despite a .206 average and a .308 on-base in the last 20 games. His career leadoff OBP (.330) and Bochy's confidence in his patient approach shape the Rangers' lineup decisions, especially with limited leadoff alternatives.

Smith’s added playing time amid Semien’s injury offers a ladder of value as a deeper-league flier. If he maintains regular at-bats, his power-speed blend could yield fringy fantasy upside in the short term, making him a plausible streaming option or bench stash in deeper formats.