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Texas Rangers: 5 Non-Roster Invitees That Could Make The Team

By Andrew Webb

Aug 9, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Texas Rangers right fielder Josh Hamilton (32) walks in the dugout before a game against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Texas Rangers right fielder Josh Hamilton (32) walks in the dugout before a game against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 31, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Will Middlebrooks (11) hits a two run home run during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Will Middlebrooks (11) hits a two run home run during the third inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

Will Middlebrooks

Struggling to find a role in the Major Leagues, could Will Middlebrooks find a home in Texas? Drafted in the 5th round of the 2007 amateur draft. Middlebrooks is former top prospect that just never found his groove in the MLB.

In parts of five Major League seasons Middlebrooks is hitting .228/.273/.329 with 43 home runs and 152 RBI. He has not played in over 100 games in a single season at the MLB level. Could the lack of experience be part of the reason he’s struggled?

Middlebrooks is a 28-year-old Texas native just looking to keep his Major League dream alive. He had a stint with the Milwaukee Brewers last season, but performed much better in the minor leagues. Only played ten games at the MLB level with the Brewers in 2016.

He could grab a utility bench role with the Rangers in camp. Middlebrooks has legitimate Major League power and has two seasons with over 15 homers. The problem is he’s been unable to find consistent playing time, and lacks plate discipline.

Middlebrooks has struck out 311 times and walked just 63 times at the MLB level. He likely won’t ever be an everyday player, but could find a role off the Rangers bench. He has the ability to play every infield position and has tremendous power.

He’ll have to fight for the role in camp, but his potential power is what could get him a role with the Rangers. Having a power bat off the bench with an ability to play every infield position is a good addition.

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