Josh Smith Diagnosed with Viral Meningitis

Texas Rangers second baseman Josh Smith has been diagnosed with viral meningitis and will be hospitalized for a minimum of a week, as announced by the team on Friday.

The 28-year-old was taken to a hospital in the Dallas area and is expected to stay for about seven to ten days, according to reports. Smith had been feeling unwell prior to seeking medical care on Wednesday.

“Our primary concern is Josh’s health,” said Chris Young, Texas’s Director of Baseball Operations. “This illness came as a surprise, but we’re confident he will get back to full health and rejoin the team soon.”

Viral meningitis is the most common form of this condition, which involves swelling in the protective lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to health experts, it usually stems from a viral infection, with typical symptoms including fever, stiff neck, and headaches. Though it’s not the most severe form of meningitis, it can occasionally lead to nausea, vomiting, and changes in mental status.

As a result of his diagnosis, Texas has placed Smith on the 10-day injured list. They’ll assess his return timeline once he’s cleared for physical activity.

Smith was drafted by the New York Yankees in the second round of the 2019 draft and joined the Rangers in July 2021. He made his Major League Baseball debut with the team in 2022. A member of the Rangers’ 2023 World Series championship roster, Smith has evolved into a key player over recent seasons, participating in over 140 games as a utility player in both 2024 and 2025.

Following the trade of Marcus Semien to the Mets last November, Smith has become the everyday second baseman, starting 26 games at that position this season. However, he’s been off to a slow start at the plate, with a batting average of .217/.324/.239 in 108 at-bats.