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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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Michael De Leon

Speaking of slick fielding shortstops who struggle at the plate. Michal De Leon is the 14th-ranked prospect in the Rangers system according to Pipeline.

At only 20-years young, 2017 will already be De Leon’s 4th full season in the Minor Leagues. Coming to the states in 2013, De Leon was one of the youngest players in Minor League history. De Leon even started a game for Double-A Frisco at 17-years old.

De Leon has the potential to be an everyday shortstop thanks in-part to his strong defensive ability. While he’ll have to battle the rest of the Rangers strong middle infield crop, his glove may give him an upper-hand.

However, don’t expect much from him offensively. His highest OPS in the minors was the .693 he put up this past season for High-A High Desert. De Leon did show vast improvement over his lackluster 2015 season. His nine home runs was a career high, seven higher than his previous career high. His .267 average was also an .052 point approvement over his 2015 .222 average.

De Leon’s most redeemable quality is his glove. One of the best defenders in the entire system, he should continue to fly through the ranks. While he’s still a couple of years from being Major League ready, De Leon’s progress is something to keep an eye on in 2017.

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