Texas Rangers: Four position battles to watch this spring

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA – AUGUST 26: Carlos Tocci #15 of the Texas Rangers at bat against the San Francisco Giants during the third inning at AT&T Park on August 26, 2018 in San Francisco, California. The San Francisco Giants defeated the Texas Rangers 3-1. All players across MLB will wear nicknames on their backs as well as colorful, non-traditional uniforms featuring alternate designs inspired by youth-league uniforms during Players Weekend. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images) /

Anybody’s Game

This one is very complicated. Hunter Pence, Willie Calhoun, Carlos Tocci, Delino DeShields and Ben Revere are all competing for an outfield spot. We know Gallo and Mazara will take up two spots. That leaves one starting opportunity and one utility opportunity.

Whichever two have the most impressive springs will probably be the two to fill the vacancies. If Texas is looking for a defensive replacement then DeShields, Tocci and Revere would be the candidates. If they’re looking for offensive weapons then Pence and Calhoun would be the primary candidates.

The thing with Pence and Calhoun is each will only earn a roster spot if the Texas Rangers plan on affording frequent playing time. In other words, they’re not the type of players to hold a roster spot just for the occasional start or pinch-hitting opportunity.

There are too many outfield scenarios to even list out. That’s why it’ll be the most intriguing competition over the next four weeks.

Pence is recovering from a sore shoulder, so he didn’t play in either of the first two spring training games. DeShields and Calhoun are off to 0-for-5 starts. Revere is 0-for-2 with a walk and Tocci is 2-for-4 with a run and an RBI thus far.

Enjoy the competitions!

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