Jack Leiter Has Begun Catch Program After Ankle Surgery

The Texas Rangers pitcher is working toward his return as the team chases a late-season playoff spot.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Baseball

Expressive painting of a baseball pitcher in blue and red uniform, throwing a ball, stylized stadium environment in the background. — Texas Rangers pitcher Jack Leiter has begun his rehabilitation catch program, marking a key step in his recovery from ankle surgery. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Texas Rangers pitcher Jack Leiter has started playing catch as part of his rehabilitation from right ankle arthroscopic surgery. The 26-year-old is now progressing toward a scheduled bullpen session.

Why it matters

The Rangers require additional pitching depth to bolster their rotation for a postseason push. With the team trailing in both the AL West and the Wild Card race, Leiter's recovery is a critical component of their remaining schedule.

Leiter recorded a 5.29 ERA over 15 starts this season, compared to his 3.86 ERA in 26 outings during the previous season. He is currently looking to rejoin a Rangers staff that sits one game behind Houston in the AL West.

The players

Jack Leiter

He is a 26-year-old pitcher for the Texas Rangers currently recovering from ankle surgery.

Texas Rangers

This Major League Baseball team is currently contending for a postseason spot in the American League.

Houston Astros

This professional baseball team currently holds a one-game lead over the Texas Rangers in the AL West standings.

Cleveland Guardians

This professional baseball team currently holds a two-game lead over the Texas Rangers for an AL Wild Card position.

Toronto Blue Jays

This professional baseball team is the upcoming opponent for the Texas Rangers in Arlington.

The details

Following right ankle arthroscopic surgery, Leiter has transitioned to light activity as he prepares for a bullpen session expected this weekend. His return is viewed as vital for the Rangers, who remain two games behind the Cleveland Guardians for an AL Wild Card spot.

September 18, 2026: The recovery progress was reported.
This weekend: Jack Leiter is expected to throw a bullpen session.
Friday, 8:05 PM ET: The Rangers host the Toronto Blue Jays in Arlington.

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Season Trajectory

The Rangers' roster moves are dictated by the rigorous demands of the MLB postseason qualification procedures. Leiter's ability to return to the mound will be a deciding factor in whether the team can overcome their division and Wild Card deficits before the season concludes.

Leiter's recovery directly impacts the Rangers' rotation depth as the team trails the Houston Astros by one game for the division lead. Fans should monitor his bullpen session this weekend to gauge his availability for the remaining schedule.

The takeaway

Ankle injuries in pitchers often require a slow build-up of intensity to ensure long-term stability during the recovery process. Monitoring the velocity and accuracy of a pitcher during his initial bullpen sessions is essential for predicting his return to game-ready status.