Rangers Welcome Back Outfielder García for Playoff Push

NEW YORK — The Texas Rangers received a crucial boost in their playoff pursuit on Sunday, as outfielder Adolis García was activated from the 10-day injured list.

García, who had missed ten games due to a strained right quad, batted fourth and played right field during the series finale against the Houston Astros. This marks his second stint on the injured list in less than a month, having previously been sidelined with a sprained left ankle from August 13 to 22.

The former All-Star and Gold Glove winner is currently hitting .235 with 18 home runs and 73 RBIs this season. Before his injury on September 1, García had been performing exceptionally well, boasting a .368 batting average with two homers, nine RBIs, and three stolen bases in just nine games after returning from the ankle injury.

“It’s always good to get one of your core guys back,” said Rangers manager Bruce Bochy. “He was really swinging the bat well when he got hurt.”

Despite a series of injuries impacting their roster, the Rangers entered Sunday on a six-game winning streak and held the best record in Major League Baseball since August 23, with a 16-4 record during that stretch. They are currently two games behind the Seattle Mariners in the American League West race.

Due to injuries, second baseman Nathaniel Lowe (left foot) and pitcher Jon Gray (right rotator cuff) are likely out for the remainder of the regular season. Shortstop Corey Seager is also in recovery following an appendectomy.

To facilitate García’s return, the Rangers optioned outfielder Josh Smith to Triple-A Round Rock.