Texas Rangers: Who wins the second base job when Elvis Andrus returns?

Jurickson Profar

Try to argue against Profar, I dare you! The Texas Rangers former #1 prospect has absolutely earned everyday playing time. He has slash line of .243/.314/.460 in 2018. He is also in the midst of a very timely tear, slashing .316/.350/.842 over his last five games. That equates to a sensational 1.192 OPS over that span.

In addition, Profar ranks in the top 10 in MLB with 18 doubles and in the top six with four triples. His six home runs this season count for half of his career total coming into the season.

Just as they say, “better late than never.” It has been one long and windy road for Jurickson Profar since his time as the #11 prospect in baseball prior to the 2012 season. Since 2012, he has dealt with shoulder surgeries, unfair opportunity and regrettable trade discussions. Six years later, it seems Profar finally has staying power.

Let’s get one thing straight: Jurickson Profar will not be granted the everyday second base job as a result of sympathy. Rather, he will become the everyday second baseman because he is outplaying all the other job candidates. In fact, he is leaving the other candidates in the dust.

Profar certainly won’t continue on his five-game hot streak for too much longer. No one can stay that hot. However, he won’t go ice cold either. Hence, the strengths of Jurickson Profar: consistent swing from both sides of the plate, knows how to get on base, pest at the plate, and matchup issue for opponents.

Do either Rougned Odor or Isiah Kiner-Falefa possess that combination of strengths?