Texas Rangers Claim Pete Kozma Off Waivers, Option Profar

In an interesting move the Rangers have claimed veteran infielder Pete Kozma off waivers from the New York Yankees. What does this mean for the Rangers, and for the future of Jurickson Profar?

As the injury status of Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre remains a mystery, the team makes a move on Sunday. The Rangers claimed 29-year-old infielder Pete Kozma off waivers and sent former top prospect Jurickson Profar to Triple-A Round Rock.

The Yankees designated Kozma for assignment on Friday after just nine at-bats in 11 games. The veteran should see much more time in Arlington than he did in New York.

In parts of six seasons, Kozma is hitting .221 with three home runs and 52 RBI, but can play four infield positions. His best season came in 2013 when he hit .217 with one home run and 35 RBI in 143 games with St. Louis.

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His biggest asset is his ability to play four infield positions and play them all above average. He won’t be a starter in Texas, but could still offer value to the organization while Beltre rehabs. This also gives the struggling Profar an opportunity to get everyday at-bats in Triple-A.

Profar made the Rangers roster after an outstanding performance in Spring Training. He struggled since Opening Day, hitting just .135 with three RBI in 15 games. He lost his everyday job in left field, but gains an everyday role in Round Rock.

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According to Anthony Andro, General Manager Jon Daniels felt Profar would better benefit from time in Triple-A. He was not getting regular playing time at the big league level, and he’s slumping right now. Hopefully Profar won’t have to spent too much time in Triple-A before he’s back in Arlington.