Texas Rangers: How Important Is Willie Calhoun To The Team?

Back in July, the Texas Rangers made a quite a trade. They sent Yu Darvish to Los Angeles. In exchange, they received three minor league prospects. Willie Calhoun is one of them. Calhoun is certainly a valuable prospect for the organization. His future in Arlington looks very bright.

The Texas Rangers called up Calhoun to the majors on September 12th. He appeared in 13 games. He finished with nine hits, four RBIs, and one home run in 34 at-bats.

Calhoun’s statistical numbers perhaps are certainly not the best. However, Calhoun is still learning. The 23-year-old’s career is only just beginning. Calhoun’s value is very important to the ballclub. He’s currently seen as the organization’s  #2 prospect.

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Calhoun is known for his amazing and unique hitting abilities. Calhoun plays in the outfield as well as the second base. With Rougned Odor being the team’s second baseman, the Rangers may utilize Calhoun as an outfielder, which is the right move. With the loss of Carlos Gomez, it’s smart to consider to Calhoun for that position. Of course, Calhoun will have to earn the spot. Calhoun’s agility is one of the improvements he needs to work on.

The importance of Calhoun to the organization is very. Because Calhoun is one of the acquisitions Texas received for their ace pitcher, the Rangers know they have to make something of the trade. Calhoun still has a lot to learn. Calhoun will certainly be invited to Spring Training so he can compete for an Opening Day roster spot. If Calhoun does well during Spring Training and earns a spot on the Opening Day roster, then it’ll mean progress and it’ll show Texas is getting somewhere with him.

Mike Axisa considers Calhoun to be a candidate for the Rookie of the Year for 2018. Obviously, it’s too early for such a bold prediction, but Calhoun is certainly a realistic pick for the award. However, for now, we’ll have to wait and see.