Texas Rangers Designate Carlos Peguero for Assignment

There was a time, not so long ago, where Carlos Peguero was one of the more productive players on the Texas Rangers. He was leading the team in home runs for the season, and while his batting line may not have been stellar, was one of the Rangers leaders in OPS. The presumed AAAA player was doing something with his chance at the major league level.

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However, with the eventual return of Josh Hamilton and the Rangers needing a roster spot for Phil Klien, Peguero was deemed expendable. As such, the Rangers designated the suddenly well traveled outfielder for assignment yesterday, a move that may have seemed somewhat surprising a couple of weeks ago.

In reality, it was a matter of time before Peguero was moved. While his power is certainly noticeable, Peguero also hit at a mere .186/.310/.414 clip. This overall OPS+ of 99 is right around league average, but that is offset by his low batting average and propensity to strike out, having done so 36 times in 84 plate appearances.

Of course, given his power potential, there is the possibility that the Rangers could get something back for Carlos Peguero instead of losing him outright. Chances are, the Rangers would not be getting back much more than cash considerations or some lower tier minor league player should a deal be consummated.

There is also the distinct possibility that Peguero will clear waivers and end up in Round Rock. This way, the Rangers could retain him as a part of their outfield depth, having that power bat ready to call up should there be an injury or the need for an extra bench player.

It is fair to say that, despite his power, Peguero is a depth player who could be shuttled back and forth from the majors in the case of injury or the need of an extra bat. While he can hit the occasional home run, his high strikeout tendencies have certainly limited his ceiling to that of the AAAA player we had all expected.

Carlos Peguero will be hitting for power somewhere. It just may not be in a Texas Rangers uniform.

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