
Corey Seager Targets Late-Season Return Following Surgery
The Texas Rangers received encouraging news on Friday as star shortstop **Corey Seager** expressed optimism about returning to the lineup before the end of the regular season.
Seager, who underwent an **appendectomy last month**, has been sidelined during a crucial stretch of the Rangers’ postseason push. Despite the setback, the two-time World Series MVP said his recovery is progressing well and that he hopes to be back on the field before the campaign concludes.
“I’m feeling stronger every day,” Seager said. “The goal is definitely to be ready to help this team before the season is over.”
### **Managing Without Their Star**
The Rangers, battling for position in both the AL West and the Wild Card race, have leaned heavily on their depth to cover Seager’s absence. Utility players **Ezequiel Duran** and **Josh Smith** have rotated at shortstop, while manager Bruce Bochy has shuffled the lineup to maintain offensive balance. Even so, Seager’s bat and leadership remain difficult to replace.
Seager was hitting .281 with 22 home runs and 71 RBIs before the surgery, making him one of the most reliable middle-of-the-order threats on the roster. His absence has left the Rangers with a noticeable gap in clutch hitting, particularly late in games.
### **Bochy’s Update & Team Optimism**
Manager Bruce Bochy echoed Seager’s positive outlook, noting that while no official timetable has been set, the shortstop’s determination gives the club confidence.
“He’s progressing nicely,” Bochy said. “We’ll keep monitoring him, but we’re hopeful he’ll be back in time to make an impact.”
Medical staff have suggested that a late-September return is feasible if Seager avoids setbacks in his rehab. That would potentially give him a handful of games to regain timing at the plate before the postseason begins.
### **Playoff Implications**
With fewer than 20 games remaining, the Rangers are in the thick of the playoff race, chasing both a Wild Card spot and ground in the AL West. Seager’s return could serve as a major boost, not only stabilizing the infield but also lengthening a lineup that has struggled with consistency.
Analysts have pointed out that even a short tune-up before October could be invaluable. “Getting Seager back in time for the playoffs would be like adding a marquee trade deadline piece,” one MLB insider noted.
### **Looking Ahead**
- For now, Seager continues his steady recovery while the Rangers fight to keep themselves in the postseason picture. His return, whenever it comes, could very well decide how far the defending champions are able to go in October.