The Texas Rangers received a significant boost to their lineup on Sunday with the return of veteran slugger Joc Pederson, who was activated from the 10-day injured list after spending two months recovering from a fractured right hand. Pederson made his return as the designated hitter, batting fifth in the order for the final game of the Rangers’ home series against the Atlanta Braves at Globe Life Field.
The 33-year-old was sidelined on May 24, when he was struck on the hand by a pitch from Chicago White Sox right-hander Bryse Wilson. The hit-by-pitch led to a fracture that kept the two-time World Series champion out of action for exactly nine weeks. Prior to the injury, Pederson had struggled at the plate, hitting just .131 with two home runs and six RBIs in 46 games.
Despite the rough start to the 2025 season, the Rangers are optimistic that Pederson’s return can help ignite their offense heading into the final stretch of the regular season. Known for his left-handed power and postseason pedigree, Pederson brings a veteran presence to the middle of the lineup. Over his 11-year MLB career, he has compiled a .237 batting average, 211 home runs, and 555 RBIs across 1,318 games while playing for six different teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he spent his first seven seasons (2014–2020).
In a corresponding roster move, Texas optioned Michael Helman to Triple-A Round Rock to make room for Pederson on the 26-man roster. Helman, 29, filled in as a utilityman during Pederson’s absence, batting .182 with one homer and four RBIs over eight games. Though Helman showed flashes of potential, the Rangers believe Pederson’s power and experience are essential as the team looks to stay competitive in the AL playoff race.
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy expressed excitement about Pederson’s return, noting, “We’ve missed Joc’s presence in the lineup—not just what he brings at the plate, but his energy and leadership in the clubhouse. We’re glad to have him back.”
Sunday’s game marked a critical moment for Pederson, who is now looking to rebound from his early-season struggles and prove that he still has plenty left to offer. If he can regain form, his bat could become a key factor in the Rangers’ postseason ambitions.
