Texas Rangers: When will Ronald Guzman Reach the Majors?

One of the most highly regarded prospects in the Rangers farm system is nearing his MLB debut. When should Rangers fans expect to see Ronald Guzman in the Major Leagues?

Currently the Texas Rangers have been on a tear lately, but it won’t last forever. The production at first base has been minimal and it could be time to call up first baseman Ronald Guzman from Triple-A.

The Rangers signed veteran Mike Napoli to hold down first base for the 2017 season. He’s had his share of heroic moments this season, but overall he’s been hard to watch. This season Napoli is hitting .165 with seven home runs and 18 RBI in 37 games.

Over the off-season Napoli signed a one-year deal worth 8.5 million for the 2017 season. His defense is nothing to write home about, and a move to DH could potential help him. That way Napoli could solely focus on his hitting.

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The other man seeing time at first base is Ryan Rua. He’s been worse than Napoli, hitting just .169 with two home runs and eight RBI 27 games. He’s nothing more than utility player off the bench right now.

Outfielder Carlos Gomez is heading to the disabled list for the next month and a half. That means Delino DeShields will probably see more time in the starting lineup and Shin-Soo Choo could shift to left or right field.

This move will open up first base for Ronald Guzman to see everyday playing time for at least a month. He’s been crushing the ball in Triple-A Round Rock this season. Through 37 games, Guzman is hitting .340 with five home runs and 19 RBI.

It’s been almost impossible to get Guzman out, and he’s leading the Round Rock team in hits this season with 48. The Rangers want to make sure when they call him up that he’ll get everyday playing time.

Right now is the perfect opportunity to give Guzman a taste of the Major League level. He’s on the 40-man roster, and can be called up at any time without having to make any roster moves. Likely the Rangers will call up outfielder Jared Hoying to replace Gomez.

That’s a good call, but this would be a good time to promote Guzman, as he’s the future at first base. To be realistic, Hoying is a fourth or fifth outfielder at best, but Guzman is likely going to be the everyday guy at first base.

Currently, the Rangers have Napoli on a one-year deal. That could mean Guzman takes over first base next season, but he needs to get some Major League at-bats before then. He’s on the 40-man roster, so expect to see Guzman at some point in 2017.

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Right now seems like a good opportunity to call him up, but the Rangers want to give the 22-year-old some more work in the minors.