The Texas Rangers announced Friday that they have selected the contract of outfielder Jarred Kelenic from Triple-A Round Rock, aiming to strengthen their offense ahead of the series opener against the San Diego Padres at Globe Life Field.
In a corresponding active roster move, the Rangers optioned second baseman Josh Smith to Triple-A Round Rock.
Outfielder Michael Helman was transferred to the 60-day injured list to open a spot on the 40-man roster.
Smith had secured the everyday second base job after Marcus Semien was traded to the New York Mets during the offseason.
However, he struggled with a . 218 batting average across 34 games this season.
His performance was further hampered by a glute strain, left wrist soreness, and a week-long hospitalization due to viral meningitis.
Rangers manager Skip Schumaker described the difficult decision to demote Smith as one of the toughest he has faced in his career.
"That's not easy.
The message was that we need to get him going because we need him to be successful up here to help us win games," Schumaker said.
He expressed hope that everyday playing time in Triple-A will help Smith regain his form and that the stint will be short.
Kelenic Brings Hot Bat to Rangers
Schumaker also expressed optimism about what Kelenic can provide against right-handed pitching. "He's a left-handed bat that plays really good defense and can run the bases well.
We're looking for a spark on the offensive side," Schumaker said.
Kelenic joined the Rangers organization on a minor league contract on June 2 after being released by the Chicago White Sox, where he hit .
226 in 59 major league plate appearances. The 26-year-old former sixth-overall draft pick quickly found success with the Round Rock Express, slashing .
340/. 431/.
620 with three home runs and 11 RBIs over 13 games.
Meanwhile, Helman's transfer to the 60-day injured list follows multiple finger fractures in his right hand after being hit by a pitch last weekend.
According to reports from the Dallas Morning News, the Rangers do not expect Helman to return until at least mid-August.
