ARLINGTON -- Wyatt Langford is one step closer to returning to the Rangers' lineup.
The outfielder began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock on Saturday, going 0-for-2 with two walks and two runs scored as the designated hitter while batting second in a 7-4 win over Salt Lake. He’s expected to play the field on Sunday as they continue his ramp-up.
“We have a schedule, but sometimes those can be adjusted,” Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said. “Maybe they go quicker, maybe slower. There's always a plan, always a set schedule, but you're still looking to make sure his legs are underneath him. But I think he's in a good spot. Hopefully he gets his timing and he’s ready to go.”
Langford has been on the injured list with a right forearm strain since April 22 and has just begun his second attempt at a rehab assignment. Langford was shut down after his first attempt in Arizona on May 1, when he reinjured his forearm in the process.
He was then shut down for multiple weeks before beginning his ramp-up process again. He took live batting practice at Globe Life Field on Friday before going on rehab, which both he and Schumaker were pleased with.
“That was the first real test,” Langford said Friday. “When you’re out there facing live pitching… that’s how I re-hurt it the first time. Those were my first full swings, so doing this and not reinjuring it is really good.”
The hope is for him to return at the start of the next homestand next Friday against Cleveland.
Langford was hitting .238 with a .637 OPS at the time of his injury, but he looked to be righting the ship. In his last seven healthy games, he slashed .370/.433/.407.
“I definitely want to get back as soon as possible,” Langford said. “I feel really good. I’m ready to get back.”