Texas Rangers: 3 Options to Fill The Hole At Closer

Jose Leclerc

If it’s time to go closer by committee then one of the first people in line should be rookie Jose Leclerc. Much like Kela, Leclerc has lights out stuff that could easily translate into a closer role. He is a rookie, and throwing him into that kind of situation could mean trouble.

This season Leclerc is 1-1 with a 2.74 ERA in 22 games. He’s allowed just two home runs in 23 innings, and has kept hitters guessing with 37 strikeouts. Leclerc had a DL stint earlier in the season, but he’s been on the MLB roster for most of the 2017 season.

The 23-year-old has one save this season, but does have experience in the minors. He is one of a handful of Texas relievers to not blow a save this season. He’s only had one chance, but even Sam Dyson failed to record one save.

It’s never ideal to ask a rookie reliever to take over the closer role mid-season, but why not. The Rangers really don’t have much to lose, and Leclerc has earned a shot at the role. In 2015 the Blue Jays gave the closer role to rookie Roberto Osuna and that has worked out fantastic for them.

It’s a low pressure situation for Leclerc since the team is going by committee anyway. At this point fans just want someone who won’t blow the lead. Leclerc is young and inexperienced, but he’s put together a strong campaign in 2016.