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The Rangers originally figured that second baseman Ian Kinsler would be able to return from his groin strain in the middle of the month, but that timetable has been pushed back a little bit:
The All-Star second baseman had an MRI Tuesday, which showed improvement in his strained left groin. But there is also still inflammation there, and he likely won't try to swing a bat for at least a week. Originally Kinsler was expected to return somewhere in mid August, but general manager Jon Daniels said it could be the end of the month until he returns now. Daniels said it could also be early September for his return too.
The good news for the Rangers is that their division lead is wide enough that they don't have to panic and try to get Kinsler to hurry back, but with Cristian Guzman struggling to get going as a fill-in, Kinsler's presence is rather obviously missed.
On Thursday, the Fort Work Star-Telegram reported that a groin injury will send Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler to the 15-day disabled list:
Kinsler did not play Tuesday and expressed a desire to continue playing with the injury, a source said.
The article notes that although the injury isn't serious, the Rangers likely want Kinsler in top shape in time for the postseason. Entering Thursday's game, they hold a 7.5-game lead in the A.L. West.
2010 has been yet another productive year for the second baseman, who's hitting .298 with an .805 OPS and ten stolen bases. It may be interesting to see whether the temporary vacancy at second base influences the Rangers' front office moves as the trade deadline nears.
For more, head over to our Rangers blog, Lone Star Ball.
Ian Kinsler MRI Shows Positive Results; Kinsler Nearing Return
And we've got some good news on Ian Kinsler's wonky groin:
Ian Kinsler MRI shows significant improvement. Will hit in cages today and take ground balls.less than a minute ago via ÜberTwitter
Anthony Andro
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The Rangers have managed to get by without Kinsler, and hold what is pretty much an insurmountable lead in the AL West, but Andres Blanco and Cristian Guzman have proved to be poor substitutes in Kinsler's stead. Non-Kinsler second basemen for Texas this year have batted just .236 (42/178) on the year with zero home runs.
Barring any setbacks, Kinsler should report to a rehab assignment shortly.
Aug 24 6:23p by Jeff Sullivan - 0 comments