Rangers Lineup: Seager Still Out as Gore Faces a Tough Test Against the Twins

The Texas Rangers are happy to be back home at Globe Life Field. After splitting the series in Boston, losing two of three before rallying for a 6-4 win on Sunday, the Rangers are now 35-36, just one game back in the AL West.

The Rangers are starting a six-game home stand, kicking off with a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins.

Texas has made a strong comeback and is in the division race. However, a major concern is the growing injury list, with some top stars still on the sidelines.

Corey Seager is still recovering from his collision with Royals catcher Carter Jensen at home plate, making it the fourth day he's missed.

The Rangers report that Seager has been hitting, throwing, and doing weight training, but his rib and jaw soreness continue to keep him sidelined.

Nicky Lopez is starting at shortstop on Monday evening, with the veteran utility man hitting .302 and a .743 OPS in 14 games. He and Ezequiel Duran have definitely stepped up to fill the big shoes Seager left, but Seager is undoubtedly in a league of his own.

Before his injury, Seager had hit nine home runs and boasted a .657 OPS in just 47 games, making it crucial for him to return to the lineup.

With Seager and Evan Carter both injured, Skip Schumaker is sending out a lineup built around the players carrying the offense right now.

Josh Jung remains the Rangers' most consistent hitter, with a .307/.367/.465 slash line and an .832 OPS. He has 78 hits over 254 at-bats, including 16 doubles and eight home runs, along with 30 RBI on the season.

Jake Burger will bat fifth and has the most home runs on the team this campaign with 12. He has also driven in 42, making him one of the more reliable run producers in the AL West.

Mackenzie Gore will be taking the mound with a 4-5 record and a 4.18 ERA across his 14 starts and 71.0 innings. He has not become the ace for the Rangers, but Gore is capable and will keep Texas in the game.

The Twins are electing to send Mike Paredes out with an 0-0 record and a 4.35 ERA. He is definitely hittable for the Rangers.

Texas is just one game out of first place. The Seager situation will be crucial to getting to the top and will be the story to watch in the next few days. The Rangers have a game in front of them on Monday evening at home that should result in a win and give them something to build on.