ARLINGTON, TX — Just hours before opening a critical series against the Atlanta Braves, the Texas Rangers received a boost to their outfield depth with the activation of Sam Haggerty from the 10-day injured list.
Haggerty had been sidelined with inflammation earlier in July, but Rangers manager Bruce Bochy noted at the time that the team expected only a short absence. Friday marked the first day the versatile outfielder was eligible to return, and the club wasted no time bringing him back into the fold.
To clear space on the active roster, the Rangers optioned infielder Cody Freeman, who had been called up during Haggerty’s absence and made his Major League debut last weekend.
Prior to the injury, Haggerty had been a valuable utility player for Texas, appearing in multiple outfield positions since his call-up in May. Over that stretch, he hit .260 with a .329 on-base percentage, two home runs, and 11 runs batted in. His defensive flexibility and ability to get on base have made him a quiet but important piece in the Rangers’ puzzle this season.
Haggerty’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Rangers, who have been surging since the All-Star break. Texas has won five of six games, including a series win against the Detroit Tigers and a sweep of the Oakland Athletics. With a 53–50 record, they sit seven games behind the first-place Houston Astros in the American League West standings.
The Seattle Mariners are currently in second place, five games back of Houston, and recently made a notable move by acquiring first baseman Josh Naylor in a trade — a sign that playoff-minded teams are ramping up before the trade deadline.
As for the Wild Card chase, the Rangers are very much in the hunt. They sit just 1.5 games behind the Boston Red Sox for the final playoff spot. The New York Yankees currently lead the Wild Card race, with the Mariners holding the second slot. Every game counts now, and Haggerty’s reintroduction adds depth as Texas battles for October.
The club has been active in recent roster adjustments. Earlier this week, the Rangers activated starting pitcher Jon Gray and designated reliever Luke Jackson for assignment. Slugger Joc Pederson also began his rehab assignment, signaling that more reinforcements could be on the way soon.
The Rangers’ front office continues to explore trade opportunities ahead of the fast-approaching deadline. With the club within striking distance of both the division and wild card races, every roster move — including Haggerty’s return — could have implications in the postseason push.
As the Rangers prepare to face one of the NL’s top teams in the Braves, they’ll hope Haggerty’s return provides the spark they need to keep the momentum rolling.
