Spring Training Preview: First Base

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There was a lot of talk about first base over the course of the off season. There was a little talk about Pujlos, a whole lot of talk about Prince Fielder, and then just a very little bit of talk about the Rangers actual starting first baseman, Mitch Moreland. After many tries with the minor league stud turned major league strikeout king Chris Davis, the Rangers finally traded him last season when it appeared that Mitch was ready to be the Rangers everyday first baseman. Mitch was about the only Ranger who showed up for the 2010 World Series against the SF Giants, and then began the 2011 season playing pretty good baseball. Davis, in my opinion, is still a better defensive first baseman, and I think he is going to be one of the best in baseball eventually when he gets the batting thing together. Mitch, I believe, is also going to be a great first baseman, and he is going to be the Rangers starting first baseman going into the 2012 season. Mitch had some struggles at the end of the season, but still put up decent numbers. Mitch batted .259 with 16 homeruns and 51 RBI in 134 games. He had a fielding percentage of .995. He also can play right field, but I think unless something goes wrong, it is going to be Mitch at first for most of the season, seeing that Napoli is going to be the starting catcher (see article here) and the Rangers have at least 4 quality outfielders in Hamilton, Cruz, Gentry and Murphy (and a 5th in Borbon). It is time for Mitch to shine in the role that Davis could not shine in. The Rangers moved both Chris Davis and Justin Smoak to get Mitch here, I hope Mitch proves them right on those decisions.

Now of course, Moreland is not the only option for the Rangers at first base, we all know that Michael Young held his own pretty well there last season, and I expect him to get plenty of chances to do that again this season. Michael surprised a whole lot of people in 2011 with the MVP type numbers he out up, but he did not surprise me. Michael is a true professionals professional, and he plays with heart and passion. Michael will be good where ever the Rangers put him again this season. Also, Napoli, as mentioned, can also play some first base, and the Rangers have Brandon Snyder on the 40 man roster. We will see Snyder in camp, but he will most likely start the season in Round Rock. Of course the Rangers also are inviting Brad Hawpeas a non roster invitee. It will be fun to watch the first base position, which is most definitly Mitch Morelands to lose. I hope Moreland does not lose it but has a great season, because that would be great for the Texas Rangers.