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| Texas Rangers Spring Training Report |
Texas Rangers Spring Training Report
by Da`Vince “Dino” Wright
Sunrise, Arizona - Adding key players is the key for the Rangers this year, but having guys to play multiple position that will help the team.
“It`s good a way to make the team, and, for some, it may be the only way in an organization that places a high value on versatility”, Ranger scout said. “It`s very valuable to have a guy with versatility.”
General Manager Jon Daniels said. “It gives the manager a lot of different options and allows you not to make a roster move if a starter has to miss a day or two. It gives you a ton of roster flexibility.”
When you talk about flexibility your speaking over Ben Zobrist, Hanser Alberto and Drew Robinson. Zobrist Hanser is a two time All-Star that has 10 years in the majors playing all four infield and 3 outfield positions. It`s amazing to have a player that can start anywhere on the diamond. He`s made the All-Star game at 2 different positions and can bat on either side of the dish. He`s also added bulk over the years and we all know when players bulk up, the lose some athletic ability but no him. He keeps getting better wherever you place him. He`s a managers dream.
Hanser Alberto showed his versatility when Adrian Beltre went down in the ALDS with a strained lower back. Alberto is an infielder that covered 3rd base while Beltre was out. He had 0 errors and cut off key runs that kept the Rangers in the series. He even had the game winning hit in the 14th inning to win game 2 for the team. Drew Robinson is a fourth round pick in 2010 from Silverado High School in Las Vegas. He has started all 4 positions in his 458 games played in the minors for the Rangers. He`s a lefty that has great ball placement. He will be the darling for the Rangers this year. These guys will be the turning point from the team last year to this year.
