Jake Burger’s return might be just the start of Rangers reinforcements

With the Texas Rangers offense looking much better against a Detroit Tigers team that is among the best in the American League, there's a lot more optimism around Arlington than there was even a week ago at this time. The good feelings are likely to continue with a series starting against the lowly Colorado Rockies and the potential return of Jake Burger. Another guy could be returning to the Rangers in Kyle Higashioka, which could keep the good times rolling.

While Burger got demoted after a bad start to the 2025 season amid the entire team failing to do much offensively, Higashioka was placed on the IL just as his bat started to heat up. The catcher's mild left intercostal strain appears to be on the mend as he began a rehab assignment this weekend. So far, so good on that end.

Kyle Higashioka’s rehab progress gives Rangers another reason to feel optimistic

He DH'd in his first rehab game on Saturday and hit a double. On Sunday, he played the field for the first time since landing on the IL and got himself another double while going 1-for-3. Higashioka only played five innings, but there's no indication that's because he was reinjured.

The Rangers likely don't want to put him at risk more than they need to before he heads back to Arlington.

The slugging catcher is eligible to come off the 10-day Injured List now, and with a Monday evening game, there's always a possibility he could be activated and recalled before the first pitch against the Rockies.

Even if the Texas Rangers don't get him back to the big leagues on Monday, it seems likely he'll be on the roster sooner rather than later. With the team staring at a chance to turn the season around, Kyle Higashioka's progress is yet another big reason for optimism.