Texas Rangers lose three minor leaguers to free-agency

Three Texas Rangers players, two had some playing time in the majors, agreed to minor-league contracts with other ball clubs today.  Kyle Blanks, RHP Stolmy Pimentel, and LHP Luis Parra.

Both Blanks and Pimentel had playing time with the Texas Rangers during the 2015 season. Overall, Pimentel has the most major league time with 3 years/33 games.  Kyle Blanks was used early in the 2015 season prior to the Rangers getting Josh Hamilton off the disabled list and acquiring Mike Napoli.  With the Rangers Blanks batted .313/.352/.522/.875 with 5 doubles, 3 home runs and 6 RBI over 18 games/71 plate appearances.

Blanks started the 2015 season in the minors because he was still coming off an Achilles issues he suffered at the end of the 2014 season.  During the 2015 season the same issues returned this time resulting in surgery.

Blanks overall his a good ball player who can hit the ball, but he’s been plagued with injuries over his career.  This is probably something the Texas Rangers are concerned about going into the 2016.  Yes, they do have Josh Hamilton who is also plagued with injuries.  I’m guessing they are banking on Hamilton to return healthy, focused, and ready to play next season.  Plus Hamilton comes at a very discounted rate with help from the Los Angeles Angels.  Thank you Art Moreno!   Blanks recently signed a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants that includes an invite to Spring Training.

Stolmy Pimentel also had some playing time with the Rangers in 2015 and played with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2013 and 2014.  During the 2015 season he had a 3.97 ERA with 7 strikeouts, 3 walks, 1.235 WHIP and 5.6 strikeouts per 9 innings.

Here’s another good Tweet about Stolmy

Pimentel had his moments during the 2015 season, but he was eventually designated for assignment. He cleared waivers and was eventually sent to Triple-A Round Rock Express.  Stolmy Pimentel was signed by the New York Mets on a minor league deal with an invite for the Major League Spring Training camp.

Next: Top 5 free-agents Texas Rangers should consider

Lastly, Luis Parra also recently signed a minor league contract with another team.  Out of the three players he’s the only one with no playing time in the majors.  The left-handed pitcher has spent the 7 seasons move up the minor league ranks.  Last season he moved up from low A ball to Double-A ball in Frisco.  He has a career 4.10 ERA with a 1.454 WHIP and 7.3 strikeouts per 9 innings.  Parra signed a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs.