Rangers to be without two game-changers for remainder of World Series

Garcia and Scherzer both left early in the Rangers’ Game 3 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Scherzer left after three innings because of back spasms, while Garcia departed after straining his oblique on an eighth-inning at-bat.

Texas decided that both of them wouldn’t be healthy by the weekend, when the teams are scheduled to play Games 6 and 8, if necessary. If the series goes that far, expect manager Bruce Bochy to start Game 3’s hero out of the bullpen, Jon Gray.

To replace two irreplaceable players, the Rangers opted for flexibility. 24-year-old utility man Ezequiel Duran replaces Garcia. He hit well this year, amassing 14 home runs and 46 RBI while playing six positions — everywhere but catcher and center field.

Scherzer’s replacement is Brock Burke, a lefty specialist who had a 4.37 ERA in 53 games for the Rangers. In his one playoff appearance, the Baltimore Orioles tagged Burke for two runs in one-third of an inning during the Division Series.

In the field, Travis Jankowski replaced Garcia in right for Game 4, with DH Mitch Garver moving up in the lineup.

It’s quite a double blow as the Rangers try to win their first World Series without their hottest hitter. Without Scherzer, they’re under pressure not just to win — but to get it done in six games.