Scouting Report: Chris Taylor

Summary

Chris Martin, 39-year-old Rangers right-handed reliever, has been sidelined since April 15 with a right shoulder impingement. After progressing through bullpen sessions and live batting practice, he began a Triple-A rehab assignment in mid-May. However, his first rehab appearance was concerning—he allowed 4 runs on 4 hits in 2/3 innings with 2 home runs, both on his splitter. Martin expressed frustration with his splitter effectiveness, noting it's being hit hard both in the majors and minors. This continues a troubling trend from early season where opponents hit .667 against his splitter with a 1.000 slugging percentage and zero whiffs. The 39-year-old posted a 7.11 ERA in his first 8 games before injury. He is progressing toward a return later in May, though the effectiveness of his key pitch remains a significant concern.