The Texas Rangers have emerged as the top dogs in the AL West this week, boasting a 19-13 record. After two years of heavy free-agent spending, the Rangers are finally reaping the rewards, and are looking to contend for a playoff spot.
The Rangers have achieved this without one of their best players, shortstop Corey Seager, who has been sidelined with a Grade II left hamstring strain since April 11. The injury occurred after Seager came up limping after legging out a double. As a result, the Rangers placed him on the 10-day injured list, and he has yet to return.
So, just how serious is Seager's injury, and when will he be back? Let's take a look at the latest reports to find an answer.
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Corey Seager Injury Update
Corey Seager suffered the injury in the bottom of the fifth inning during a game against the Kansas City Royals. As seen in the video below, Seager began visibly limping as he rounded first base on his way to a double.
Rangers SS, Corey Seager, comes out of the game immediately after a non-contact injury. Hope it's nothing too serious 🙏 pic.twitter.com/xo2TKKAQxB
— Royals Daily (@RoyalsDaily_) April 12, 2023
He was later diagnosed with a Grade II left hamstring strain and placed on the 10-day IL the following day.
In his place, Ezequiel Duran has stepped up and performed well, with a .358 wOBA, three home runs, 10 runs, and 14 RBI in 25 games. With Duran's success, the Rangers have had the luxury to be cautious with Seager's recovery.
Seager resumed baseball activities two weeks ago and began taking groundballs on April 29. On May 3, manager Bruce Bochy stated on Buster Olney's podcast that he expects Seager to return in "roughly 7-10 days," with a rehab stint considered within that timeline.
When Seager returns, the Rangers will be forced to reshuffle their lineup. Seager is firmly established at shortstop so the red-hot Duran may take starts from designated hitter Robbie Grossman or rookie third baseman Josh Jung.
Corey Seager Fantasy Baseball Outlook
As one of the premier offensive talents in the game, Corey Seager is always reliable for elite fantasy production when healthy. In his short time on the field this season, he has slashed .359/469/.538 with a home run, four RBI, and seven runs scored in just 11 games.
While missing a month will dent the All-Star shortstop's full-season fantasy value, he should produce at a high rate for the rest of the season. If you have him, consider him an automatic start at the shortstop position. However, with 2022 being his first season since 2019 with over 100 games played, always keep an eye out for injuries.
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