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Texas Rangers: 5 players with something to prove in the closing month

ARLINGTON, TX - JUNE 15: Yohander Mendez #65 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Colorado Rockies in the top of the first inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington on June 15, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

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Texas Rangers — HOUSTON, TX – MAY 11: Adrian Beltre #29 of the Texas Rangers throws to first base in the fourth inning attempting to throw out Marwin Gonzalez #9 of the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on May 11, 2018 in Houston, Texas. An error was issued on the throw. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Adrian Beltre

By all means, Adrian Beltre has nothing to prove to anybody. He’s already solidified himself as a future Hall of Fame third baseman and he’s given far more than enough to the game of baseball and to all of his teammates throughout his 21-year career.

He may however have something left to prove to himself. Beltre is at a crossroads in his career. He can keep playing…continue to climb all-time leaderboards and perhaps pursue the championship he has long been deprived of. Or, he can retire…spend time with his family and embark on his life after baseball goals.

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Another season of sporadic injuries seemed to have him swaying towards retirement. That was until the month of September came about.

This month, Beltre is slashing .333/.408/.818 with five home runs and eight RBI. An .818 slugging percentage for a 39-year-old that is constantly battling hamstring issues…that is remarkable! Keep in mind, we’re only 11 days into September. Beltre has nearly matched his pre-September season home run total in nine games this month. Clearly the guy can still swing the bat. Oh, and he’s still a magician with the glove too.

The ageless wonder that Adrian Beltre is, he’ll have to choose retirement time wisely. It will probably be another five years until he can no longer keep up with the young guys.

It’ll be interesting to find out what decision Beltre makes. He is at the end of his Texas Rangers contract; therefore, he will become a free agent if he does continue to play. Surely, the Rangers will welcome him back for a bargain. Even the Rangers don’t resign him, there is a great chance someone will.

As another note, Beltre is only 26 home runs away from 500 in his career.

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