Nolan Writin'
Fansided

Grading the Texas Rangers’ pre-MLB lockout free agent acquisitions

By Chris Bachman

Jul 25, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks right fielder Kole Calhoun (56) reacts after striking out against the Chicago Cubs during the eight inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 25, 2021; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks right fielder Kole Calhoun (56) reacts after striking out against the Chicago Cubs during the eight inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Texas Rangers Semien
TORONTO, ON – SEPTEMBER 30: Marcus Semien #10 of the Toronto Blue Jays singles in the third inning of their MLB game against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre on September 30, 2021 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /

Marcus Semien, 2B – 7 years/ $175 million

Free agency kicked off with a bang for the Texas Rangers with Marcus Semien

Career numbers (9 years):

  • .256/.324/.444
  • 160 home runs
  • 110 OPS+
  • 28.7 WAR
  • 2021- Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, All-Star

Marcus Semien is very familiar with the Rangers following his years as the Oakland A’s shortstop. Following his time with the rival, he went north to another foe in the Toronto Blue Jays. There he set the all-time record in home runs hit by a second baseman at 45 in 2021.

Semien wasn’t matched with the Rangers much given his age (31). The Texas Rangers front office saw right through that and signed him for a massive deal. Twice in the past three years, he’s finished 3rd in MVP voting and he’ll be looked to finally hold down a position that’s baffled the Rangers since trading Ian Kinsler.

Semien will be one of the “pillars” for the Rangers to build their next contender on. He’s a born leader and fierce competitor that others will follow. A disciple of Ron Washington, his defense will need to be elite to meet expectations and help a young rotation.

Grade: A-

This is a spectacular moment for Rangers fans to say they finally have an answer at second base. The worry is whether his power is here to stay. In ’21 his fly ball rate jumped to 36.7% as compared to a career 27.5% and he pulled it more at 39.7% compared to 31.2%. This could be attributed to a change in swing but it remains to be seen how it’ll play in the new ballpark. As of now though, it’s an incredible grab by the Rangers to sign such an accomplished talent.

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