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.
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Rangers' Josh Smith: Sitting Saturday
Rotowire
Smith is not in the Rangers' starting lineup against Mariners right-hander George Kirby on Saturday.
Smith will be on the bench for the start of Saturday's game after going 1-for-11 with one RBI and a 2:5 BB:K over his last three outings. The righty-hitting Ezequiel Duran will start at the keystone and bat eighth.
