Joc Pederson returns to Rangers lineup after missing 52 games with a broken hand

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Joc Pederson returned to the Texas Rangers’ lineup Sunday after missing 52 games because of a broken right hand.

Pederson, who joined Texas on a $37 million, two-year contract during free agency in December, went 0 for 4 — beginning with a first-inning strikeout with the bases loaded. He batted fifth as the designated hitter for Texas, which beat the Atlanta Braves 8-1 to sweep the three-game series and run its winning streak to six.

“It was a long time,” Pederson said. “First at-bat definitely sped up on me a lot. Bases loaded first one. Was not a good at-bat. But after that it started to slow down a little bit. It started to feel better, really liked some swings.

“It was a huge win. That’s the most important thing is we won and you keep stacking those and getting my feet underneath me and we’ll be good to go.”

Pederson hit .131 with two home runs and six RBIs in his first 46 games with the Rangers. The two-time World Series champion was at .052 through 19 games after a 0-for-41 slump.

“Joc, he’s trying to get his timing,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said after the game. “It was great to have him out there. We signed Joc to be part of this offense, a big part of this offense, a guy that can hit in the heart of the order, drive in runs. He should make us a better offense.”

The 33-year-old’s hand was broken May 24 when it was hit by an 87.5 mph cutter from Chicago White Sox right-hander Bryse Wilson.

Pederson made his 39th start, his 37th at DH, with two at first base. Bochy said Pederson again will primarily be a DH.

After being part of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series title played at Globe Life Field to end the pandemic-impacted 2020 season, Pederson was with the Braves for their championship the following year.

To make room for Pederson on the active roster, infielder/outfielder Michael Helman was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock.

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