The Texas Rangers had a rough 2021. There were more than a few players who did not play up to expectations. Some in the majors and some in the minors. Here is my list of players that are in trouble going into the 2022 season. These are players who may have played their last for the Texas Rangers organization.
Pitchers:
Sponsored Link
Wes Benjamin – With an ERA of 8.74 with the Rangers and an ERA of 8.29 with the Express, to say it was a down season for him would be an understatement. Benjamin had a very rough 2021 campaign. He did not look like the same pitcher we had seen over the years with Texas. In 2020 his ERA was 4.84 for the Rangers. Something has happened to his confidence or his delivery. It just does not seem to be working for him anymore. I do not think you will see him pitch for the Rangers again.
Matt Bush – As cool as it was to see Matt pitching in 2021, I believe his time in the majors has most likely come to a close. He is a fan favorite and his story is pretty amazing. He got into four games for the Rangers in 2021 and had an ERA of 6.75. I don’t see him being part of the future plans for Texas
Jose Leclrec – He has suffered from setback after setback since becoming the closer. He may have worn out his welcome with fans and the brass alike. While I really like Leclerc, I am just not sure he fits into the future plans of the franchise. I would be happy to be wrong on this one, but I just don’t see it.
Demarcus Evans – He had a great time in AAA ball in 2021, but every time he was called up he was not good at all. In Round Rock he posted an ERA of 3.74 while in Arlington it was north of 5. The Rangers may look to move him in a deal for starting pitching this winter (whenever they are able to do that sort of thing again).
Fielders:
Nick Solak – As much as I wanted Solak to succeed at second base, he did not. He was even sent down after it was obvious he was not the answer at second. Bring in Marcus Siemen and Corey Seager, and there really is no place for Nick. Utility is one thing, but if Isiah Kiner-Falefa is staying, Nick is expendable. I do not expect him to return in 2022.
New designs at the Ranger Report Shop!
Willie Calhoun – If any player on this list had some bad luck over the past few seasons it is Calhoun. Every single time he seems to get on track he has an injury sideline him. Even though it’s not his fault, he has run out of time in a Texas Rangers uniform. I look for Calhoun to be traded or DFA’s before the end of spring training. In my opinion it is a real shame since he has worked so hard to get into playing shape only to be oft injured.
Eli White – White showed some real promise in 2021. With the addition of Kole Calhoun, the emergence of Adolis Garcia and the desire to see Leody Taveras succeed, there really is no place for White. On top of that you have Steele Walker, Bubba Thompson and others in the minors that are faster defensive replacements for White. I think he will be moved as well.
Andy Ibanez – Andy showed some great things at the end of the 2021 season, but I think once again he will be used in a deal for other minor league talent/starting pitching. Ibanez did bad in spring training but made the most of his opportunity when he made it to the Rangers. While I would love to see him stick around, much like Solak there really is nowhere for him to get playing time in the majors.
Am I completely wrong? Maybe I’m crazy? This is just my personal opinion of players that will not be on the roster when opening day 2022 rolls around. Hey, what else are we going to write about this lockout offseason?
