Kevin Kouzmanoff could be called up

Mar 16, 2014; Surprise, AZ, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff (6) throws to first for an out during the second inning against the Chicago White Sox at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

It seems likely that Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre is heading to the disabled list.  That means the Rangers are likely going to recall Kevin Kouzmanoff from Triple-A Round Rock Express.  I’m sure this isn’t news anyone wants to read, but after seeing Beltre exit the game last night it does seem likely.

Beltre is scheduled to have an MRI today in Dallas by Dr. Keith Meister.  It could all be precautionary, but that doesn’t mean they won’t put him on the 15-day disabled list to allow things to settle down.  Baseball is 162 and the Rangers are only at game 8, there is a long road still ahead.

No official word yet from the Rangers, but Kevin  Kouzmanoff could join the Texas Rangers as soon as today, but that seems unlikely since they have a 3:05 PM CDT start today in Boston.   More realistically he could be with the Texas Rangers on Friday when the Houston Astros come to town.

Now before you get too worried and start claiming the Rangers are going down in flames, don’t worry, take a deep breath and relax.  Adrian Beltre has issues like this from time to time and he’ll be back.  Also, Kouzmanoff is a suitable sub for him.  He played a lot at third this spring training, in fact he appeared in all 27 spring training game.  He’s showed he’s good defensively and he has a good bat.   And before you start, he’s no Beltre, only Beltre is Beltre.  But he’ll hold down the spot well for a few games if needed.

Spring training stats:

• 27 games/54 at-bats
• .370 batting average
• 3 doubles / 3 home runs
• 12 RBI
• 7 strike outs

Round Rock Express Stats:

• 4 games/16 at-bats
• .313 batting average
• 1 doubles
• 1 RBI
• 3 strike outs

Video of Kevin Kouzmanoff hitting a home run against the Houston Astros

So there, things don’t look too bad now, right?  Yes, I’d rather have Adrian Beltre at third and/or in the lineup at least.  But, it looks like Kouzmanoff will get his chance at third soon.  And if you’re going to the game this weekend and he is there, cheering and yelling KOOOOOOOUZ is pretty fun.   So sit back, relax, and enjoy the game.  Beltre, if he is gone, will be back soon.