The Texas Rangers are competing with the Houston Astros for first place in the American League West division. Texas is in the AL Wild Card conversation as well. However, the Rangers are dealing with injury concerns at the moment. Jack Leiter is among the players battling an injury, but will he return soon?
Leiter, 26, is recovering from right ankle arthroscopic surgery. While it remains to be seen when he will return, Leiter has reportedly started playing catch and is hoping to return for a playoff push, according to MLB.com. He is expected to throw a bullpen this weekend.
Leiter has endured a difficult season. He's pitched to a 5.29 ERA across 15 starts. However, this is the same pitcher who turned in a respectable 3.86 ERA in 26 outings a season ago. He can make an impact when he's on top of his game.
Article Continues BelowThe Rangers can use all of the pitching depth they can get. When it comes to the question of whether or not Leiter will return soon, the answer is uncertain right now. He does seem to be trending in the right direction, though.
Texas is one game behind the Houston Astros for the AL West lead as of this story's writing. The Rangers are two games behind the Cleveland Guardians for the Final AL Wild Card spot as well. There's no question this team has work to do, but the postseason remains within reach.
The Rangers' next game is scheduled for Friday night at 8:05 PM ET in Arlington, TX against the Toronto Blue Jays.