The Texas Rangers activated shortstop Corey Seager from the injured list Friday, ending his 19-game absence due to lower back inflammation. Seager returns mired in a career-worst 0-for-27 slump with 11 strikeouts, having gone hitless in his last seven games since May 6. The two-time World Series MVP's timing couldn't be worse as Texas needs offensive production.

Outfielder Wyatt Langford also rejoined the roster after missing 39 games with a right forearm strain. Both players completed rehab assignments at Double-A Frisco this week. To clear roster space, the Rangers optioned utility man Cody Freeman and outfielder Alejandro Osuna to Triple-A Round Rock.

Before his injury, Seager was batting .179 with seven home runs and 20 RBI in 182 plate appearances. His 50 strikeouts represented 27.5% of those plate appearances. Langford posted a .238 average with one homer and four RBI in 20 games before landing on the IL.

The returns provide Texas with veteran leadership and young talent, though Seager's prolonged slump raises questions about his immediate impact. The Rangers need both players to regain their form quickly in a competitive AL West race.