The Texas Rangers moved one step closer to getting veteran catcher Danny Jansen back on the field after he was cleared to begin a minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco.
Rangers beat reporter Jeff Wilson first reported the update Sunday, noting Jansen is expected to join the Frisco RoughRiders on Tuesday after progressing through live batting practice without setbacks. The assignment marks the biggest step yet in his recovery from a right forearm injury.
Jansen has been sidelined since early June after being diagnosed with a right forearm strain and elbow inflammation. He was later transferred to the 60-day injured list, but recent throwing sessions and catching work have convinced the Rangers he is ready for game action.
The veteran catcher caught all 33 pitches thrown by Jack Leiter during a live batting practice session Saturday and completed throws to the bases without discomfort. Jansen and manager Skip Schumaker both indicated the workout went well, clearing the way for the rehab assignment.
Texas signed Jansen to a two-year, $14.5 million contract before the season, but injuries limited him to 41 games. He hit .171 with three home runs and 12 RBIs before landing on the injured list. The Rangers are expected to keep him in Frisco long enough to rebuild his workload before activating him later this month if he avoids setbacks.
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Jansen's return would provide welcome stability behind the plate as the Rangers continue battling for postseason positioning. Texas entered Sunday at 59-59, sitting just behind the Houston Astros in the American League West while remaining in the thick of the Wild Card race.
Adding an experienced catcher before the final stretch could strengthen both the Rangers' lineup and pitching staff as they attempt to secure a playoff berth during the final weeks of the regular season.
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