Texas Rangers: Seven stars of interest in the 2020 free agent class

Nicholas Castellanos

Let’s take a break from starting pitching and look at another potential third baseman.

Nick Castellanos is not Nolan Arenado, but he is one of the more underrated talents in baseball. Having played for a terrible team the past two seasons, people often overlook his impressive numbers.

The 26-year-old played in 157 games in 2017 and 2018. Last year, he slashed .298/.354/.500 and posted an .854 OPS. His 46 doubles ranked 5th in MLB and his 185 hits ranked 6th.

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Let’s not forget, Castellanos has played the majority of his career games at pitcher-friendly Comerica Park. He’s managed the park very well, proving to be a great gap-to-gap hitter, but also being able to clear the fence with consistency.

His ability at the plate will transfer to any ballpark. Bring him to Globe Life Field and he might turn a handful of those doubles into home runs.

Defensively, Castellanos played outfield for the Tigers all of last season. Though, he played 129 games for them at third base the year prior. The Texas Rangers would be signing him to play third. He did struggle at the hot corner in 2017, but his offensive prowess may be enough to offset any potential defensive lacking.

Rangers’ manager, Chris Woodward, is known in part for being a great infield coach. He would take it upon himself to ensure Castellanos can play third at a high level. That is, if the Texas Rangers were to sign him.