This Rangers rookie continues to shine on the biggest stage
A star in the making who almost didn't get the chance to take center stage in the playoffs has been shining bright.
Thanks to a loophole in the rulebook, Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter is on the postseason roster even though he wasn't added to the MLB roster until after the Aug. 31 playoff roster deadline.
With only 23 games of MLB experience, Carter has not been phased by the bright lights in the postseason.
Viewed as a potential five-tool player, he has looked like a seasoned veteran at the dish, giving the Rangers quality at-bats while providing a spark to the bottom of their already potent lineup.
In 12 games played this postseason, Carter is slashing .308/.449/.538 with 7 extra-base hits, including a home run, five RBI and three stolen bases.
Another thing standing out is the rookie's advanced eye at the plate. His 9.4% chase rate would have ranked him among the best in baseball had he qualified.
He has also flashed his potential with his glove in the outfield, making numerous big plays in the series versus the Houston Astros, including his clutch catch in the eighth inning of Game ! in the American League Championship Series.
Robbing Astros third baseman Alex Bregman of what would have been extra bases, Carter's catch also ended as a double play when Astros second baseman Jose Altuve was called out on a base-running mistake, helping end a potential comeback bid in game one.
In 108 games played in the minors this season, Carter slashed .288/.413/.450 with 36 XBH, 67 RBI and 26 stolen bases before getting called up to the Rangers on Sept. 8.
With only 101 at-bats under his belt at the major league level, Carter has plenty of room for growth as he continues to develop as a player who could soon be one of the faces of the organization.
Carter will look to continue his strong play as he faces off against the surefire National League Rookie of the Year in Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll in the World Series.
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