Hunter Pence Could Miss All-Star Game After Being Removed From Rehab Assignment
By Scott Rogust
Hunter Pence has had himself a feel-good 2019 campaign with the Texas Rangers. As a result of his career resurgence, Pence was voted as the American League's starting designated hitter for the All-Star Game. But now, Pence's Midsummer Classic appearance looks to be in jeopardy.
Pence was removed from his rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco on Tuesday, as he wasn't deemed ready to play.
Pence has been removed from injury rehab assignment in Frisco. No new injury found on MRI, but not ready to play at this moment. All-Star Game remains in limbo
— Evan Grant (@Evan_P_Grant) July 2, 2019
During a rehab appearance on Monday, Pence appeared to have reaggravated his right groin strain, which he suffered back on June 17. MRI results on Tuesday failed to show Pence developing a new injury, but it was clear he couldn't play tonight.
Rangers manager Chris Woodward said the setback could push Pence's return until after the All-Star break.
Hunter Pence is headed back to the @AllStarGame for the first time since 2014.
— MLB (@MLB) June 27, 2019
He’s the AL’s starting DH. pic.twitter.com/U6ii3WKeAR
Prior to the injury, Pence recorded a .294 batting average and .962 OPS along with 15 home runs and 48 RBI. As a result, Pence earned an impressive amount of votes to get the All-Star Game start.
With Pence now looking unlikely to appear at the Midsummer Classic, expect reserve and Boston Red Sox slugger JD Martinez to earn the start.