Texas Rangers: 5 Bullpen Options for the Rangers in 2017

Jerry Blevins

The veteran Jerry Blevins could be a solution in the Texas Rangers bullpen. Blevins has put together a successful Major League career, including the 2016 season with the New York Mets.

Blevins went 4-2 2.79 ERA in 73 games with the Mets last season. Blevins allowed just 4 homers in 42 innings pitched and struck out 52 batters. Still available in free agency and a possible good fit with the Rangers.

There are two options open here for the Rangers. They could bring in the left-handed Blevins on a one-year deal and trade him once Diekman is ready. The other option is sign Blevins to a one-year deal and have two good left-handed options out of the bullpen in 2017.

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Both are dependent on the health of Diekman and when he is ready to return to the Rangers pen. Blevins would be a strong fill in though while Diekman starts the season on the disabled list. A veteran pitcher with ten years of Major League experience.

The Rangers would not have to give up anyone to sign Blevins. He could be a small one-year transaction and be flipped in July for a prospect. Blevins has plenty of experience in a late inning type role and would be a huge addition to the Texas pen.

Most of the previous options on this list result in multiple year deals. Blevins is more likely to sign a one-year deal based on his age and injury concerns. A short-term fix to the bullpen problem and could end up as a trade candidate later in the season. This deal sounds like a win-win situation for the Rangers.