Texas Rangers: Second base primed to be topic of debate in 2020

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 27: Rougned Odor #12 of the Texas Rangers forces out Clint Frazier #77 of the New York Yankees before making the throw to first at Globe Life Park in Arlington on September 27, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 27: Rougned Odor #12 of the Texas Rangers forces out Clint Frazier #77 of the New York Yankees before making the throw to first at Globe Life Park in Arlington on September 27, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images) /
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ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 24: Matt Duffy #5 of the Tampa Bay Rays makes a throw to first in the first inning during a game against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field on September 24, 2019 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 24: Matt Duffy #5 of the Tampa Bay Rays makes a throw to first in the first inning during a game against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field on September 24, 2019 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Offseason Additions (Changes)

In the first two position previews we’ve seen notable additions to the position that warranted this category. However, Texas didn’t add anybody of note that seems likely to make a big league impact in 2020. Perhaps we can consider Nick Solak an addition as he looks certain to start the year with the big league club after a breakout stint in Arlington last season that saw him hit .293 in 33 games.

Beyond that, Matt Duffy could qualify as an addition although one on a minor league deal. The 29-year old was brought in for infield insurance with an ability to play all over the dirt. A career .282 hitter, Duffy posted a 2.5 fWAR season in 2018 but injuries have hindered him. He hasn’t played second at the big league level since 2015 but with his abilities, could be an emergency option if needed.