If you have been living under a rock, you may not know the Rangers opening day roster has changed a bit. With the addition of Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, Jon Gray and Kole Calhoun, I thought it would be good time to update my predications. Now this is based on who is currently on the roster and is subject to change any day now.
Infield
The Rangers have significantly upgraded their infield. Nick Solak struggled in 2021, as did Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Here is who I now have manning the bases for Texas on opening day.
First Base – Nathanael Lowe has earned this spot. His 2021 was streaky, but when he was hot he was really hot. Lowe doesn’t have much competition for that spot on the roster at the moment, although that could change.
Second Base – Marcus Semien will be the primary second baseman for the Texas Rangers for the next seven years. I feel that my prediction of him being the opening day starter there is pretty safe.
Shortstop – Corey Seager, the $325 mm man will be there. I am very impressed that the Rangers were able to convince him to join the Rangers. He is a great player and his personality should mesh well with his teammates.
Third Base – Josh Jung has been nothing short of greatness in the minors. Jung is going to be the opening day third baseman unless injury or struggles derail him. He is ready in my humble opinion.
Catcher – Jose Trevino is going to start opening day. He did not do anything in 2021 to lose the spot, even thought Jonah Heim played great as well. They will platoon and it will be a good platoon.
Outfield
Now I have a very strong feeling that the Rangers are not done in the outfield yet, but this list is as the roster stands today.
Right Field – Kole Calhoun will take the position opening day. Calhoun will probably be in a platoon situation for the season, but I believe he gets the opening day nod.
Center Field – Adolis Garcia was the man in 2021. I am very interested to see what he becomes in 2022 and beyond. Garcia will get the opening day nod in center. Leody Tavares may make the team as a backup, but Adolis is going to be out there opening day.
Left Field – DJ Peters is no longer on the 40 man roster. He would have been my pick and still may be. I think the spot will go to Eli White on opening day. Could also be Willie Calhoun, but I have my doubts. White had a decent 2021 and showed some power at the plate as well. Again, I think the Rangers have more to add here, but as is I think it will be White.
Bench Players
Jonah Heim
Isiah Kiner-Falefa
So there you have my December First opening day roster. Agree or disagree, thanks for reading. Feel free to leave a comment here on the site, on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and as always be sure to listen to the Podcast!
