Earlier this week, injured Texas Rangers designated hitter Joc Pederson began a rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco in Omaha.
On Thursday, he made his first game appearance since May, serving as the designated hitter and going 2-for-3 with two doubles, a walk, a run scored, and one strikeout. On Friday, he played first base but went hitless in three at-bats before the rain-shortened game was called after five innings.
So far, things are looking positive for the two-time World Series champ. The Rangers are hopeful he’ll be ready to rejoin the team during their upcoming west coast road trip against the Angels and Mariners. When asked if Pederson was still on track to return next week, manager Bruce Bochy responded, “He’s doing well,” and noted he watched all of Pederson’s at-bats on Thursday. Bochy had already said earlier in the week that the trip was a realistic return window.
Pederson has been out since May 25 after suffering a fractured right hand from a hit-by-pitch the day before against the White Sox. Despite initially staying in the game and scoring a run, he was removed shortly after. Testing confirmed the fracture, and doctors gave him a four-to-six-week recovery window.
Before his injury, Pederson was struggling more than most at the plate. In 46 games, he slashed just .131/.269/.238 with two homers and six RBIs. He even set a franchise record by going 0-for-41, though that record has since been surpassed.
In his absence, the Rangers have found ways to spark their offense, rotating through players in his spot and producing strong results. Since June 1, they’ve scored the fifth-most runs in the league with 217.
If Pederson can find his rhythm once he’s back, it would be a welcome boost for a Rangers team aiming to claw back into the playoff hunt.
