What happened to Ryne Stanek? Astros relief pitcher carted off field during game vs Rangers

Houston Astros relief pitcher Ryne Stanek went down, seemingly in immense pain, and was carted off the field in the game against the Texas Rangers. Stanek was brought in to close out the blowout win. After running to first to tag the base, he appeared to roll his ankle.

Not only is Stanek one of the Astros' top relief pitchers, but he is also a pending free agent. If this injury is serious, which it appears to be at first glance, Stanek and the Astros have both been dealt a massive blow. He is one of their top pitchers in the bullpen, and was set to receive a massive payday this offseason.

Chandler Rome of the Athletic was the first to report that Stanek was being taken off the field.

"Ryne Stanek is going to be carted off the field after suffering some sort of injury to his right leg/ankle while covering first base. He can't put any weight on it" - Chandler Rome

Talkin' Baseball posted a clip of the injury to Twitter.

He was also reportedly pounding the cart in frustration as he was being taken off the field.

Ryne Stanek's injury leaves a huge hole in the Houston Astros bullpen

Stanek was expected to be a crucial part of the pitching staff for the Astros' playoff run. They proved last year, when they won the World Series, how important pitching depth is. With so little time left, there are very few options around the league to fill in.

In a game they defeated the Texas Rangers 13-6, Ryne Stanek's injury could be a turning point in the Astros season.