Texas Rangers: Could Mike Hauschild Join The Rotation?

Pitcher Mike Hauschild could be the next Rule-5 selection that turns into an everyday Major League player. The Rangers have been impressed with Hauschild’s performance this spring, and he could even earn himself a spot in the starting rotation.

Many Texas Rangers fans are unfamiliar with 27-year-old pitcher Mike Hauschild. He was selected in the Rule-5 Draft from the Houston Astros by the Rangers. If he continues this stretch of play he will be a household name in Arlington by the end of 2017.

This spring Hauschild has pitched in four games (two starts) and has a 1.74 ERA. He’s pitched 10.1 innings, and struck out seven batters while allowing just seven hits. Hauschild has allowed just two earned runs, and has yet to give up a home run this spring.

Last season Hauschild went 9-10 3.22 ERA in 24 starts in Triple-A with the Astros. His stats don’t scream “ace pitcher”, but he could turn into a solid middle-of-the-rotation type pitcher in the Major Leagues.

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As part of the Rule-5 Draft, the Rangers must keep Hauschild on their 25-man roster the entire 2017 season. If Texas removes him from their roster he will be offered back to the Astros. Expect to see Hauschild on the Opening Day roster, especially if he continues this outstanding performance.

Right now the Rangers have at least one spot open in the starting rotation. Starter Andrew Cashner will not be ready by Opening Day, which opens a door for Hauschild. He could potentially grab the No. 5 spot in the Rangers rotation.

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When Cashner returns if the rotation is full, a swingman type spot out of the bullpen is possible for Hauschild. This Rule-5 selection could turn out to be a great pickup for the Rangers.