PHOENIX - The Texas Rangers may have to face the rest of the World Series without their star right fielder, Adolis García, as he exited Game 3 against the Diamondbacks on Monday due to left side tightness. The All-Star outfielder grabbed his side after a swing in the eighth inning, indicating potential trouble. An MRI post-game revealed García is suffering from a moderate oblique strain, which puts his availability for the remainder of the series in question.

Travis Jankowski took over for García in right field for the remainder of Game 3 and is expected to occupy the same spot in the starting lineup for Game 4. Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy stated that no decision has been made regarding García's status for the rest of the series. The team will likely evaluate his condition before making a final determination.

Oblique strains typically require several weeks to heal, according to Baseball Prospectus' recovery database, which estimates an average return time of 38 days. However, with the World Series at stake, García may attempt to play through the injury despite the potential risks. It seems unlikely, though, that doing so would leave him in an optimal state for performance.

Video footage of García's swing in the eighth inning clearly shows him in discomfort, signaling the aggravation of his left side. The timing couldn't be worse for the Rangers, as García has been a key contributor throughout the postseason. He has been their cleanup hitter, and in Game 3, he was shifted to third base. So far, García has set a record for the most RBIs in a single postseason, with an impressive stat line of .323/.382/.726, eight home runs, and 22 RBIs in 15 playoff games.

If García is removed from the roster, he will be ineligible to return for the remaining games of the series, effectively ending his season. While the Rangers would have the opportunity to activate another player in his place, losing García's offensive prowess would still be a substantial blow to their lineup.

The Texas Rangers and their fans are anxiously awaiting updates on García's status. His absence for the rest of the series would certainly be a significant setback, while his presence on the field would come with its own risks. As the team weighs their options, the Rangers must carefully consider the potential impact on their World Series aspirations.

More updates regarding Adolis García's injury and the Texas Rangers' roster decisions are expected to come in the following days.