Texas Rangers: 3 Options to Fill The Hole At Closer

Ernesto Frieri

He’s new to the Rangers, but not new to the ninth inning role. Recently acquired veteran Ernesto Frieri could save the day in Arlington. The 31-year-old reliever could be exactly what the Rangers needed to stop the bleeding.

Both Kela and Leclerc have little experience in the ninth inning role. Frieri has eight years of MLB experience and 73 career saves. He’s struggled the last couple years, but could reinvent himself in Arlington.

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This season in a small sample size Frieri is 0-0 with 3.60 ERA in four games with two earned runs and three strikeouts. He pitched very well in the minors before joining the Rangers. He pitched in 18 games with a 2.86 ERA and seven saves in the minors this season.

He’s not a long-term closer option like Kela or Leclerc. Although Frieri could hold down the role for the second half of the season. Somebody needs to stop the bleeding, and the Rangers aren’t going to give up assets to acquire anyone.

If the Rangers are looking for an experienced guy to hold down the role Frieri is the guy. Kela, Leclerc, and Frieri could be an interesting team to watch over the second half of the season. Someone needs to close out the game, and hopefully these guys and solve the problem.