- Jurickson Profar, 1B
First base is an area that the Texas Rangers should improve on. Profar only played in 90 games last season, managing a .239 average. It wasn’t a terrible performance for Profar, but one that could be better suited at another position. His .321 on-base percentage was about middle of the road, in comparison to his teammates. I think Profar just needs more time in baseball. For now, he’s the better of the first base options that Texas has. Even then, he should still be at the bottom of the lineup.
- Nomar Mazara, OF
Mazara was a key part of the success that Texas had in 2016. He was a tremendous help in the outfield and wasn’t terrible at the plate. He had a .266 average and a .320 OBP. Mazara should be seen as a threat. His 137 hits in 145 games proves he knows what he’s doing. Mazara fits here, breaking up Profar and the number 9. As a player that can hit, he can force the pitchers to think twice about the bottom of the Rangers lineup.
[Kenny2]
- Joey Gallo, DH
Gallo hasn’t lived up to the expectations that so many had for him. He needs to be replaced. With Mike Napoli on the market, there is no excuse to have Gallo at the DH position. Napoli can play first base as well, leaving room to alternate Profar between first and DH. That luxury can help Texas manager Jeff Banister find the best fit. Gallo only played in 17 games last season, hitting a meager .040 BA and a .200 OBP. There are better options available. For now, he’s on the roster.
I would move Odor to left and play Profar at second which improves our defense
Pete,
Thank you so much for reading this article! I definitely could see Profar at 2B. I just don’t think Banister would consider it. Who knows!
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