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Chris Martin Takes Step Toward Rangers' Return
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- Chris Martin Takes Step Toward Rangers' Return
(© Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images)
The Texas Rangers received encouraging news on the injury front Wednesday as veteran reliever Chris Martin made his first rehab appearance while working his way back from a right shoulder impingement.
Pitching for Double-A Frisco against Midland, Martin tossed a scoreless inning, allowing one hit while striking out two batters.
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It marked his first game action since landing on the Injured List at the beginning of June and represented another positive step toward rejoining the Rangers' bullpen.
Rangers manager Skip Schumaker has indicated Martin is not expected to require an extended rehabilitation assignment, suggesting only a couple of outings should be enough before he is activated.
Second Shoulder-Related Absence of Season
Martin was placed on the 15-day IL on June 1, with the move retroactive to May 31, after recurring discomfort in his right shoulder.
The current absence is his second stint on the IL this season because of the same shoulder issue. Earlier in the year, the veteran right-hander missed more than a month after being sidelined from mid-April until late May.
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The Rangers have taken a cautious approach with the 39-year-old, hoping to ensure the shoulder is fully recovered before bringing him back to the major-league roster.
Veteran Hopes to Rebound in Second Half
Martin's numbers this season have not reflected the consistency he has shown throughout much of his career.
Across 12 appearances in 2026, the right-hander owns a 7.84 ERA while battling through the shoulder issues that ultimately sent him back to the IL. A healthy return could provide an opportunity to reset during the second half of the season.
His recent struggles stand in contrast to his production a year ago, when he emerged as one of Texas' most dependable late-inning options. Martin posted a 2.98 ERA in 49 appearances during the 2025 season, providing valuable stability in the Rangers' relief corps.
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Over an 11-year MLB career, Martin has compiled a 3.45 ERA and established himself as a reliable bullpen arm capable of handling high-leverage situations.
If his rehab assignment continues without setbacks, Martin could soon give the Rangers another experienced option in relief as the club looks to strengthen its bullpen for the stretch run.
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