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Rangers' MacKenzie Gore shakes off comebacker, impresses in spring training start
Plus, a young prospect shows power and a playoff hero makes his spring debut
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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Texas Rangers left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore impressed manager Skip Schumaker with his competitiveness, shaking off a 101.1 mph comebacker off his left leg to complete three scoreless frames against the Chicago White Sox. Meanwhile, Rangers right-hander Josh Sborz, a playoff hero, made his Cactus League debut after missing all of last season due to shoulder surgery, and minor league third baseman Rafe Perich, pressed into duty due to injuries and illnesses, showed off his power with a 108.6 mph single.
Why it matters
Gore's toughness and ability to shake off an injury scare is a positive sign for the Rangers' pitching staff, while Sborz's return from injury and Perich's power display provide depth and potential lineup options for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The details
In the second inning, White Sox second baseman Sam Antonacci hit a 101.1 mph comebacker off Gore's left leg, but the left-hander fielded the ball and threw to first for the out, then remained in the game to complete three scoreless innings. Sborz, whom the Rangers re-signed to a minor league deal this winter, made his Cactus League debut, pitching a perfect seventh inning and striking out a batter with his slider. Perich, a minor league third baseman, started at designated hitter and hit a 108.6 mph single, his first Cactus League hit.
- On February 27, Gore shook off the comebacker and completed his start.
- On February 27, Sborz made his Cactus League debut.
- On February 27, Perich recorded his first Cactus League hit.
The players
MacKenzie Gore
A left-handed pitcher for the Texas Rangers.
Josh Sborz
A right-handed pitcher for the Texas Rangers who re-signed with the team on a minor league deal this winter after missing all of last season due to shoulder surgery.
Rafe Perich
A minor league third baseman in the Texas Rangers' system who was pressed into duty at designated hitter due to injuries and illnesses among the team's regulars.
Sam Antonacci
The Chicago White Sox second baseman who hit the 101.1 mph comebacker off Gore's leg.
Skip Schumaker
The manager of the Texas Rangers.
What they’re saying
“It'll probably be ugly, but I'll be alright.”
— MacKenzie Gore (Dallas Morning News)
“He's worked very, very hard to get back to where he once was, and he's very, very close.”
— Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers Manager (Dallas Morning News)
“Second outing, he'll be alright.”
— Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers Manager (Dallas Morning News)
What’s next
The Rangers will continue to monitor Gore's progress and Sborz's return to form as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The takeaway
The Rangers' spring training has provided encouraging signs, with Gore's toughness, Sborz's comeback, and Perich's power display showing the team has depth and resilience as they look to build on their success from last season.
