Rangers 2B Josh Smith battling viral meningitis

Field Level Media|published: Sat 16th May, 10:17 2026

Apr 10, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop Josh Smith (8) dives back to first base on a pick off attempt by the Los Angeles Dodgers during the third inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Texas Rangers second baseman Josh Smith is undergoing treatment for viral meningitis at a Dallas-area hospital, the team announced.

Smith, 28, started feeling ill this week and visited doctors on Wednesday. He will remain in the hospital until he returns to full health, which the team said is expected to take a week to 10 days.

"Our only concern right now is Josh's health," said Chris Young, the team's president of baseball operations on Friday. "Josh is receiving tremendous care from outstanding health professionals and has a good prognosis. This is obviously an unexpected illness, but we hope to see him return to full health and rejoin the club very soon."

Viral meningitis is an inflammation of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord.

Smith has been on the 10-day injured list with a right glute strain since May 4. He has also dealt with left wrist inflammation during the rehab process.

Smith is hitting .217 with six RBIs in 31 games this season. He is a career .235 hitter over 487 games across five seasons, with 31 homers and 134 RBIs. He helped Texas win the World Series in 2023 and earned a Silver Slugger award in 2024.

--Field Level Media

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