After weeks of anticipation and uncertainty, Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy has confirmed what fans have been hoping for — Joc Pederson is back.
The two-time World Series champion completed his rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco and is set to rejoin the Rangers during their upcoming West Coast road trip. The announcement comes at a pivotal time for a Texas team still clawing its way back into postseason contention.
Pederson, who has been sidelined since May 25 with a fractured right hand after being hit by a pitch against the White Sox, wrapped up his rehab stint with encouraging signs. Over two games with the RoughRiders, he went 2-for-6 with two doubles, a walk, and time spent both at the plate and at first base.
Bochy, who had been monitoring his recovery closely, shared on Saturday, “He’s doing well. He’s moving with confidence again. We’ve been watching every at-bat, every swing. It’s time.” The manager’s tone carried both relief and expectation, signaling Pederson’s return is more than symbolic — it’s strategic.
Though Pederson was off to a rough start before the injury — slashing a career-low .131/.269/.238 with just two home runs and six RBI — the Rangers are hopeful that the break served as a mental and physical reset. The hand is healed. The swing looks cleaner. And the timing couldn’t be better.
“Sometimes all it takes is one good stretch to turn a season around,” Bochy added. “He’s got the experience and the power. We believe he can still help carry this lineup.”
Texas, currently hovering just outside the final AL Wild Card spot, has found ways to stay afloat offensively in Pederson’s absence. Since June 1, they’ve scored the fifth-most runs in baseball, a marked improvement thanks to contributions from young bats like Wyatt Langford and the versatility of Josh Smith. But adding a seasoned left-handed slugger to the mix — especially one with Pederson’s playoff pedigree — could be the boost they need down the stretch.
The front office has also been working behind the scenes as the trade deadline nears, and Pederson’s return only adds to the flexibility Bochy now has in shaping his lineup. Whether deployed at DH, first base, or in a pinch-hit role, the veteran’s presence could be a difference-maker during tight late-season matchups.
Fans should expect to see Pederson activated for the Rangers’ upcoming series in Los Angeles against the Angels — fitting, considering his deep California ties. With his bat back in the lineup and the team heating up, Texas is positioning itself for a serious second-half charge.
He’s back. And with him, the Rangers’ playoff hopes may have just found new life.
