SURPRISE, Ariz. – Energetic Cody Freeman, who was expected to challenge for a utility role on the Rangers opening day roster, is expected to miss at least four to six weeks with a fracture in his lower back, manger Skip Schumaker said Saturday.
Schumaker said Freeman, 25, will probably “start his spring training at the four-week mark,” providing he heals as expected. There are only five weeks remaining until the Rangers open the season at Philadelphia on March 26. It essentially eliminates the possibility of Freeman making the opening day roster.
“Obviously, he wasn’t thrilled with the news,” Schumaker said. “He’s he’s going to be out a little bit. But he’s the type of kid that he will get something out of this rehab. I know it’s tough for him, but it’s not like he’s not part of the plan moving forward. He’s going to help us at some point during the season.”
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Freeman made his MLB debut last year and infused the Rangers’ clubhouse with some second-half energy. He was expected to compete for a utility spot with Ezequiel Duran, though Duran’s ability to play shortstop gave him an edge.
In addition, Schumaker said right-hander Winston Santos, who was hit in the left wrist by a come-backer during a live batting practice session earlier in the week was also diagnosed with a fracture. He is expected to miss four weeks of facing hitters, but will still be able to throw bullpens, so his ramp up to readiness may not be dramatically hindered.
The Rangers also scratched Michael Helman from the lineup for their Saturday exhibition in Mesa against the Chicago Cubs with a slight groin issue. Schumaker said he was simply being overly cautious early in camp with Helman and that if it was “March 21 as opposed to Feb. 21, he’d be in there. Just no need to push it this early.”
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