Texas Rangers Interested in Ian Kinsler At The Trade Deadline?

The 2017 trade deadline is just a few short weeks away. The Rangers have not decided whether they want to buy or sell. If they decide to buy could former Ranger infielder Ian Kinsler be an option?

The Texas Rangers look like they have new life in the second half of the season. That could mean the team will be buyers here at the upcoming trade deadline. Could current Tigers infielder Ian Kinsler help the Rangers?

Unless a miracle happens the Tigers will be big-time sellers at the trade deadline. They will have just about everyone on the block this summer. The Rangers desperately need help at second base, and the Tigers could have a solution.

Four-time All-Star Ian Kinsler could be on his way back to Arlington. The 35-year-old is on a one-year deal with a team option for 2018. The 12-year veteran could finish his career where it began in Arlington.

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In eight seasons with the Rangers, Kinsler hit .273 with 156 home runs and 539 RBI. He had strong numbers in his first three seasons in Detroit, but has dropped off steadily this season.

Through 72 games this season Kinsler is hitting .238 with nine home runs and 23 RBI. The good news is that his strikeout to walk ratio has improved. Thus far Kinsler has 32 walks with just 39 strikeouts and could still be a productive bat.

It’s clear that Rougned Odor can’t hold down the starting job right now. He’s hitting .215 with 17 home runs and 40 RBI in 90 games. Bringing in some help could give Odor a break and take the pressure off him.

This season Odor has been hard to watch and has just an 0.1 WAR. While Kinsler’s offensive numbers haven’t been much better he’s posting a 1.8 WAR this season. His stellar defense and ability to get on base offer more than Odor can right now.

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If the Rangers truly believe they can still win a playoff spot then they need help. Second base has been a big problem and Kinsler has great numbers in Texas. It’s a good fit and a short-term fix that could help the Rangers get into the postseason.