Texas Rangers close to a deal with Scott Baker

Surprise, Ariz – The Texas Rangers are close to a deal with former Seattle Mariners RHP Scott Baker. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

Surprise, Ariz – The Texas Rangers are close to a deal with former Seattle Mariners RHP Scott Baker.  The Rangers are continuing to try to add depth in their bullpen and looking for other options in the starting rotation.  So far the Rangers have plucked Robbie Ross and Tanner Scheppers from the bullpen.  Also, they have only named Yu Darvish, Martin Perez, and Tanner Scheppers in the rotation.  It appears that Joe Saunders and Robbie Ross will complete that rotation.

Baker was recently released by the Seattle Mariners, after his request, because he turned down their assignment to the minors.  He was fighting for a spot in the rotation while with the Mariners.   But, he didn’t have the spring training they wanted for him to be in the rotation.  Baker had a record of 1-1 with and ERA of 6.75 over 4 starts/ 12 innings.  He allowed 9 runs, 16 hits and only 1 strike out.

Baker is another pitcher that is recovering from surgery.  He has been working on getting his command and endurance back up.  He’ll likely start in the minors where he’ll continue to work on those issues.  If Yu Darvish isn’t able to return soon, he’s likely to be placed in the starting rotation, possibly before Matt Harrison and/or Colby Lewis.

While with the Minnesota Twins, from 2005-2011, Baker had an ERA of 4.15 over 163 games.  His best year was in 2011 when he had an ERA of 3.14 with a record of 8-6.