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

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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MLB: Boston Red Sox at Baltimore Orioles
MLB: Boston Red Sox at Baltimore Orioles

Wesley Wright

32-year-old left-handed relief pitcher Wesley Wright could have the best shot at making the Opening Day roster. An injury to lefty Jake Diekman has opened up a role for someone to jump in at least until mid-season.

Wright has eight years of Major League experience going 10-18 4.16 ERA in 371 games with two saves. His first three years in the MLB were horrendous, posting an ERA above 5 every season. In 2011 something changed with Wright.

Since 2011 he’s put together five consecutive solid Major League seasons. He did not pitch in the MLB in 2016. He pitched in the minors with the Boston Red Sox, going 0-2 4.31 ERA in 19 games with three saves.

Wright isn’t going to turn into an All-Star pitcher. We’ve seen what he can do, but he’s good enough to make the Rangers roster. The Rangers desperately need a left-handed arm with experience.

Wright not only has the ability to get left-handed hitters out, but right-handed batters too. Wright is much better against lefty batters, but can get both out. Another great quality is his ability to keep the ball in the ballpark.

Wright does not allow many home runs, and his experience could be useful in the Rangers bullpen. As long as Wright can stay healthy throughout Spring Training, expect him to be in the Rangers pen Opening Day.

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