Corey Seager, the Texas Rangers shortstop, took live batting practice Sunday, his body still recovering from a second back injury this season. This latest push comes after Seager was sidelined on July 1, just 26 days ago.
Seager completed the session with a home run, a symbolic moment of output despite the physical toll. He plans to take live BP again Monday, signaling an expedited return to the field, likely through a minor league rehab assignment.
The two-time World Series MVP has already endured a brutal season of physical setbacks. He played only two minor league games in early June, returning from a three-week absence due to lower back inflammation.
Just a month ago, in June, Seager spent two more weeks on the injured list after suffering a concussion. His body, a crucial asset for the Rangers' capital, has been under constant strain.
On June 30, 27 days ago, Seager was removed from a game in Toronto during the first inning due to back discomfort, a clear sign of his body's failing capacity. This repeated breakdown ensures the five-time All-Star will play his fewest games since joining the Rangers in 2022.
Seager has been limited to just 51 games this season, marking what's been described as the worst performance of his career. He's hitting a meager .182, with 10 home runs and 25 RBIs.
Before his first back injury, Seager was in an 0-for-27 slide, the longest of his career, demonstrating the immense pressure on players to perform even when their bodies are failing. He returned from the concussion to play only three games before his back flared up again.
"I would love to tell you yes, but backs are not what you want," Seager stated, acknowledging the precarious nature of his physical condition. This quote highlights the player's direct experience of their body as a fragile instrument of production.
The Cost of Performance
Manager Skip Schumaker discussed a possible rehab stint, noting, "It's just tough to mimic some in-game stuff." The organization's focus remains on returning the player to peak output, even if it means pushing a body that's already shown significant wear.
Schumaker added, "It's always up to the player. Because he missed so much time, we're going to discuss it." This framing places the burden of decision on the player, while the underlying economic imperative for his return remains.
"Looked like today was really good. See what it feels like tomorrow, and then we'll discuss the rehab assignment," Schumaker concluded. The immediate assessment of performance overshadows the long-term health implications for the player.
Capital's Investment and Its Demands
The Rangers, as capital owners, are also anticipating the return of other key assets. Left-handers Jordan Montgomery and Cody Bradford haven't pitched in the big leagues since 2024.
Montgomery underwent the second elbow reconstruction surgery of his career last year, 1 year ago, while with Arizona. He had played a crucial role for the Rangers when they secured the World Series in 2023, 3 years ago, a victory that significantly boosted the team's market value.
Montgomery rejoined the Rangers this year on a one-year contract, representing a renewed investment in a player whose body has already undergone extensive repair.
Cody Bradford, another valuable arm, had elbow surgery in June 2025, 1 year ago. He made 34 appearances in 21 starts over his first two big league seasons with the Rangers before being shut down during spring training last year.
Bradford also delivered a strong showing in the World Series as a rookie, further solidifying his value as a productive asset. The collective physical toll on these players underscores the relentless demands placed on labor within the sports industry, where bodies are pushed to their limits for the accumulation of capital.