Texas Rangers: Should The Team Bring Back Andrew Cashner in 2018?

The starting rotation might be the biggest concern for the Texas Rangers as they head into the off-season. The organization will likely need to fill three rotation spots before next season, but could Andrew Cashner be one of them?

Last off-season the Texas Rangers brought in veteran righty Andrew Cashner on a one-year deal worth $10 million for 2017. He was coming off his career-worst season, and was looking to rebound in Arlington.

Luckily, that is exactly what happened as Cashner went 11-11 with a 3.40 ERA in 28 starts with the Rangers. He wasn’t the ace of the rotation, but he finished with his best ERA since the 2014 season.

The 31-year-old starter is now eligible for free agency and will likely look to cash-in on a multiple year deal with a club this off-season. The Rangers still need starting pitching, and they kept Cashner around past the trade deadline for a reason.

More from Nolan Writin'

The fact the Rangers decided to keep Cashner instead of moving him for prospects is a good sign. It means that the organization likely wants to keep Cashner around longer than 2017, and could pursue an extension this winter.

Not only is this a good move for Texas, but Cashner had a strong year in Arlington. He finished with a career-high 4.4 WAR in 2017. That is two points higher than his previous career high, and it’s fair to say that he feels comfortable in Texas.

Extending Cashner in Arlington seems like a smart idea from both sides. The Rangers are going to have to give him a pay increase, but that’s expected. Getting Cashner back in a Rangers uniform for 2018 is a good idea, and hopefully the front office believes it as well.

Home/Texas Rangers News