Could Napoli Return This Week?

Just over a calendar month ago, Rangers’ All-Star catcher Mike Napoli was sent to the disabled list with a strained quad. On Tuesday, he began his rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco, and now, it appears that Napoli could be on the verge of returning to the Rangers’ lineup.

Texas was hoping Napoli could play in three games--one game as a designated hitter, then two as a catcher--but due to a matter of scheduling, it appears that his assignment  might be cut short a game. Napoli will reportedly catch for Frisco in game two of their Texas League Championship series with Springfield on Wednesday. On Thursday, the teams will travel back to Frisco, and Texas may opt to bring Napoli back then, rather than waiting for the series to resume.

Of course, all this hinges on how Napoli looks and feels as his rehab continues, but Rangers’ manager Ron Washington said this week that an early return for Nap is a distinct possibility.

“The intention is for three games,” Washington said, per the Dallas Morning News. “But don’t be surprised if you see him after two. Let’s see how Napoli does and let’s see where he is when he comes back.”