4 closers the Rangers can sign if Kirby Yates leaves

The Texas Rangers want to improve their roster to return to the World Series. One player Texas needs to re-sign is Kirby Yates. He was a dominant closer for the Rangers last season. Whenever he took the mound in the ninth inning, opposing teams knew the game would end shortly. However, when players succeed and are free agents, other teams will want them.

If Yates were to leave the Rangers, there are plenty of options to replace him. Tanner Scott can make batters whiff at the ball and send them back to the dugout. A former World Series Champion could also make his return to Texas. Let's look at four pitchers the Rangers could sign if Yates decides to leave in free agency.

4: Tanner Scott

If Kirby Yates leaves the Rangers, Tanner Scott can easily take over his role. He has a 97 MPH fastball and is known to make hitters whiff. His ERA was 2.73 last season. However, the downside to him is that his zone accuracy is lower than what teams seek. Scott could cost the Rangers a pretty penny since he will be a hot commodity in the market. Scott might not be the direction the Rangers want to go without a TV deal.

3: Blake Treinen

Blake Treinen could be another option for next season. He won the World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers this past season. He was the closer throughout the playoffs for LA. The righty's ERA last season was 1.93, which is all Rangers fans need to know about him. After recovering from his injury, the Rangers could get him before his stock truly rises.

2: Aroldis Chapman

Why not bring one of our former World Series champions home for another shot at a title? Considering Aroldis Chapman only pitches one or two innings a game, he would fit right in as a closer. Even though his control is questionable, he still has a strikeout percentage of around 40%. Some Rangers fans might not be open to bringing him back, but Texas could get him cheap for one season.

1: Clay Holmes

After Luke Weaver took his job in the second half of the season, Clay Holmes could look for a new home this winter. The Rangers should be all over him in a heartbeat if the price is right. Yes, his production dropped off the map in the second half of the season. But, Mike Maddux could use his coaching powers and bring him back to form.