ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - APRIL 02: Manager Bruce Bochy #15 of the Texas Rangers looks on during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on April 02, 2024 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
Texas Rangers supporters got a sneak peek into what lies ahead when Jack Leiter, one of the team’s promising pitching prospects, stepped onto the MLB stage for the first time on Thursday at Comerica Park against the Detroit Tigers.
Regrettably, Leiter’s debut wasn’t without its challenges. The 23-year-old right-handed pitcher struggled, exiting the game before completing the fourth inning, having given up seven runs on eight hits in just 3 2/3 innings.
It proved to be a tough outing for the rookie, as he failed to maintain leads of 4-0 and 7-4. Fortunately, the Rangers’ bullpen managed to staunch the flow of runs, allowing the offense to mount a comeback for a 9-7 triumph.
Following the game, a disappointed Leiter took responsibility for his performance, acknowledging that he made too many errors and didn’t execute his pitches as effectively as he would have liked.
"I know I'm better. I need to be better. I will be better. That's kinda the frustration. The pitches I left on the table and the mistakes that I made."
Maturity beyond his years. He's not new to this process or the criticism. I am fully behind Jack Leiter. #StraightUpTX pic.twitter.com/VakHzQQ2Ia
— Abby Jones (@_abigaiiiil) April 18, 2024
Leiter faced a tough lesson after struggling against a struggling Tigers lineup. Despite Detroit’s position near the bottom of offensive rankings in the American League leading up to Thursday’s game, Leiter found himself challenged.
Though he managed to navigate through the first and third innings without allowing any runs or home runs, he left too many opportunities for the Tigers to capitalize, issuing three walks along the way. It’s possible nerves played a role in his performance.
As is common with rookies, Leiter might need some time to adjust before fully realizing his potential. While he carries the pedigree of a former No. 2 overall pick and will likely have numerous opportunities to showcase his abilities, he still appears to be a work in progress, not yet the finished product many had anticipated.
