Earlier this week, Texas Rangers designated hitter Joc Pederson began a rehab stint with Double-A Frisco during their series in Omaha. On Thursday, he made his first appearance since late May, serving as the designated hitter. The following day, he played first base as part of his continued rehab progression.
After two games, the outlook is encouraging for the two-time World Series champ. The Rangers are optimistic he could return during their upcoming West Coast road trip against the Angels and Mariners. Manager Bruce Bochy confirmed Pederson is “doing well” and said earlier in the week that a return during the trip is realistic.
Bochy watched all of Pederson’s plate appearances on Thursday, when he went 2-for-3 with two doubles, a walk, a run scored, and a strikeout. On Friday, he went 0-for-3 in a rain-shortened, five-inning contest.
Pederson has been on the 10-day injured list since May 25 after fracturing his right hand when he was hit by a pitch the night before against the White Sox. Though he initially stayed in the game, he exited shortly afterward, and scans confirmed the break—putting his recovery timetable at four to six weeks.
Before the injury, Pederson was struggling significantly at the plate. In 46 games, he slashed .131/.269/.238 with just two home runs and six RBIs. His slump included a franchise-worst 0-for-41 stretch, though that record has since been broken.
During his absence, the Rangers’ offense has picked up, ranking fifth in MLB with 217 runs scored since June 1. If Pederson can return to form, he could provide another lift to a lineup that’s gaining momentum in the playoff race.
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