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Rangers’ Seager, Freeman Move Closer to Long-Awaited Returns
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- Rangers’ Seager, Freeman Move Closer to Long-Awaited Returns
(© Dustin Safranek-Imagn Images)
The Texas Rangers continue working toward getting two important infielders back on the field. Both Corey Seager and Cody Freeman reached encouraging milestones on Monday as they progressed through their respective recoveries.
The Rangers want Seager back in the lineup as soon as possible, but only when he is fully healthy. The same applies to Freeman.
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According to Kennedi Landry from MLB.com , Seager repeated the same workout he completed on Sunday while the Rangers were in Atlanta . The session marked another step in his recovery from the back injury that has landed him on the Injured List twice this season.
Freeman also moved closer to returning.
According to Shawn McFarlad from the Dallas Morning News , the infielder is traveling to Arizona to begin a rehabilitation assignment in the Arizona Complex League after undergoing surgery for a herniated disc in his back just a few weeks ago.
Signs of progress
For both players, Monday represented meaningful progress.
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Seager's workout marked his fourth consecutive day of baseball activities since the Rangers resumed play following the All-Star break on Friday in Atlanta. His progression has steadily increased.
Friday consisted of straight-line running. On Saturday, Seager advanced to hitting off a tee while continuing his hitting progression. Sunday included soft toss inside the batting cage along with defensive work that featured taking ground balls.
Repeating Sunday's workout on Monday should not be viewed as a setback.
Instead, it likely reflects the Rangers' desire to continue building his workload before advancing him to more demanding baseball activities.
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Manager Skip Schumaker has not provided a timetable for Seager's return after he was placed on the IL on July 1.
Before he can be activated, Seager is expected to advance to higher-intensity hitting sessions, complete live batting practice, and demonstrate he can run the bases without limitations.
Once those steps are completed, the Rangers will determine whether he needs a rehabilitation assignment or is ready to return directly from the IL.
Two seasons to forget
Seager has struggled offensively this season, hitting .182 with 10 home runs and 25 RBIs in 51 games while enduring the toughest slump of his career.
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Freeman's season has also been interrupted by injuries.
A lumbar stress reaction during spring training prevented him from competing for an Opening Day roster spot.
Although he returned to MLB in June, his stay was brief.
Across seven games, Freeman hit .235 with a .513 OPS before returning to the IL on June 25 because of the herniated disc that ultimately required surgery.
In early July, Freeman told reporters his recovery was moving faster than expected.
Following his previous back injury, Freeman completed a two-week rehabilitation assignment before being activated and optioned to Triple-A Round Rock.
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Although position players typically receive seven days for rehabilitation assignments, those stints can be extended when necessary.
Once Freeman is fully healthy again, he is expected to return to Round Rock. Particularly with Nicky Lopez and Justin Fosue continuing to fill important roles at the MLB level unless another injury changes the situation.
A glimmer of hope
For both players, Monday's developments represent another positive step.
The recoveries may not be moving as quickly as either player hoped, but both are continuing to move in the right direction.
Seager remains one of the most respected leaders in the Rangers clubhouse because of his calm approach, professionalism, and ability to perform under pressure.
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Even during difficult stretches, he maintains the same preparation and confidence that have defined his career.
Freeman has earned praise throughout the organization for his determination and resilience while navigating multiple setbacks at a young age.
His willingness to attack rehabilitation with a positive mindset has impressed teammates and coaches alike.
Both players understand the value of patience during the recovery process and have remained committed to returning only when they are fully prepared to contribute.
Their work ethic, perseverance, and dedication to the team continue to make them important pieces of the Rangers' long-term plans.
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