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Texas Rangers 2017 Positional Breakdown: Shortstop

By Connelly Bock

Oct 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus (1) throws out Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Albert Pujols (not pictured) during the eighth inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Rangers defeat the Angels 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus (1) throws out Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Albert Pujols (not pictured) during the eighth inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Rangers defeat the Angels 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Hanser Alberto

May 22, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Rangers second baseman Hanser Alberto (2) drives in a run with a single during the sixth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
May 22, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Rangers second baseman Hanser Alberto (2) drives in a run with a single during the sixth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Known as the guy who runs around the dugout and dumps Gatorade on unexpected interviewees. However, Hanser Alberto does have an important role on the team.

Alberto solidified himself as the go-to late-inning defensive replacement off the bench in 2016. While he moves all over the infield, Alberto is best utilized at shortstop.

Being ranked as high as 15 in the Rangers farm system, Alberto was always a prospect with an impressive glove and a well below average bat. His -34 wRC+ in 2016 proves that. Yes, that is a negative before the 34. I was also unaware that was possible.

What Alberto lacks offensively he makes up for in the field. He posted a 4.8 UZR in 59.1 innings at shortstop. This led to an absurd 83.2 UZR per 150 games played. It would have been nearly impossible to keep that pace up. But just in case you’re wondering, that would have been the best UZR ever posted by about 50.

Would Alberto be a Gold Glove candidate if he played everyday? It’s possible. However, given his prowess at the plate, or lack-there-of, Alberto is better used as a defensive replacement who occasionally starts.

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