Joey Gallo Could Reportedly Return as Early as Next Week for Rangers

The Rangers have some reinforcements on the way as Joey Gallo could be activated off the IL as early as next Tuesday.

The team's leader in home runs looks to return from a left oblique strain that has sidelined him since June 2. Before the injury, Gallo was hitting .276 with 17 home runs, 41 RBIs and a .421 OBP. His presence in the lineup has helped balance the Rangers offense all season.

Joey Gallo (oblique) could return next Tues. https://t.co/oF7fIN2tfe
— Rotoworld Baseball (@Rotoworld_BB) June 19, 2019

The move comes at just the right time, as Texas placed veteran outfielder Hunter Pence on the 10-day IL Monday with a right groin strain. The Rangers are thin in the outfield, making Gallo's return a welcome presence for the team.

Gallo and Pence, the top two home run hitters for the Rangers this season, have combined for 32 dingers on the season.

Thanks for the well wishes guys! Hoping to get back on the field soon! #TogetherWe
— Hunter Pence (@hunterpence) June 18, 2019

The Rangers currently sit in second place in the AL West behind Houston with a 39-33 record. An upcoming stretch of AL Central opponents with Gallo in the lineup could help Texas gain ground on the division leading Astros.