3 players that make the Texas Rangers’ DH dilemma a good one to have

Texas Rangers’ DH: Khris Davis

Khris Davis’ spring with the Texas Rangers definitely didn’t go the way he or the organization had planned.

After struggling mightily out of the gates, Davis finally found his power surge late in spring training, only to be halted by an unfortunate quad injury on a sacrifice bunt.

Typically not a bunter, Chris Woodward complimented the veteran outfielder’s approach and willingness to do whatever it took to help the Rangers get a win.

However, a .219 spring average is nothing to call home about. Neither is his career average of .243.

The one thing the Texas Rangers have needed for a long time, though, is a Khris Davis-type hitter to protect Joey Gallo in the lineup.

The one thing, in my mind, that will keep Davis on this roster is his contract situation, and the Rangers having to pay him $16 million this season.

Keep in mind, they are eating all of Rougned Odor’s contract, a majority of Elvis Andrus’ contract and Davis’ remaining salary. Fortunately for Texas, Khris Davis’ money comes off the books at the conclusion of the season.

When it comes to at-bats, Chris Woodward said that he’d be willing to move Davis around and find a place for him to play, including first base.

If the Rangers can tap into the Khris Davis of 2018, there is no reason for him not to be in the everyday lineup, especially if he puts out a fifth .247 batting average with 40 homers.

If not, a 33-year old aging outfielder on a rebuilding team is not an ideal use for a roster spot when younger guys like Eli White, Adolis García and Leody Taveras are waiting for consistent at-bats.

Regardless, Khris Davis won’t be in Arlington very long, and if that means he gets consistent DH at-bats this year, he won’t be getting them here next year.