Rangers Demote Burger, Promote Crim Amid Slump

The Texas Rangers have demoted first baseman Jake Burger to Triple-A Round Rock after he hit just .190 with three home runs and a 29.6% strikeout rate in his first 30 games. Burger, who hit 34 home runs last season and was a major offseason acquisition, has struggled to find his power in Arlington, contributing to the team's broader offensive slump. The Rangers have not set a timeline for Burger's return, instead hoping the demotion will help him reset. In a corresponding move, first base prospect Blaine Crim, who is batting .313 with seven home runs in Triple-A, will be promoted for his MLB debut. The Rangers hope Crim's addition will boost their struggling lineup, but some analysts believe more significant changes are needed to fix the team's offensive woes. An additional roster move is still required to clear a 40-man spot for Crim.