The Texas Rangers are set to receive a major boost for this weekend's pivotal series against the Houston Astros. According to Kennedi Landry, Corey Seager is expected to be activated from the injured list Friday ahead of the opener at Minute Maid Park.
Seager has been sidelined since July 1 with lower back inflammation, missing nearly a month after an injury-interrupted first half that also included time in concussion protocol. The Rangers plan to activate him without a minor league rehab assignment after he completed multiple live batting practice sessions this week.
His return comes at a crucial point in the season as Texas enters the series holding a slim lead over Houston in the American League West, with the Monday trade deadline just days away.
Seager was in the midst of a prolonged slump before landing on the injured list, but the Rangers remain confident he can provide an immediate boost to the middle of their lineup. Manager Bruce Bochy will welcome back one of the club's most accomplished hitters as Texas tries to strengthen its hold on first place.
The two-time World Series MVP has appeared in 51 games this season, batting .182 with a .292 on-base percentage, a .390 slugging percentage, 10 home runs and 25 RBIs.
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The Rangers entered Thursday atop the AL West at 55-53, with the Astros just one game behind. The three-game showdown in Houston could have significant implications for the division race entering the final two months of the season.
Texas is expected to make a corresponding roster move before Friday's game to clear space for Seager. His return gives the Rangers one of their most important offensive pieces back as they prepare for a critical stretch against their division rivals.
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