Rangers eyeing surprising position change for team's top prospect

Sebastian Walcott is making waves in the minor leagues for all the right reasons. but now the six-foot-four infielder might be in line for a position change to help fill any potential gaps in the big league roster.

With the middle infield in Arlington locked up by perrernial All-Stars for the next five to six years, Walcott doesn't have a clear path to the big leagues. Texas has also been mocked to take a chance on a future franchise shortstop during the 2025 MLB Draft next month, which speaks to the level of talent at the position across all levels of the game.

At Double-A Frisco Walcott was listed as a third baseman in the lineup yet again on Friday, marking eighth game at the hot corner this season.

Where does Walcott fit in Arlington?

Josh Jung has struggled at third base this year despite finally being healthy. His spot in the lineup is plummeting alongside his numbers. He is young and has earned some grace but is not pacing to be a long term stick in Arlington currently.

Add in the draft being absolutely loaded with shortstops and we get a murky story. There are highlight names all across the board up the middle and it is almost a certainty the Rangers will take their pick of the crop.

Getting Walcott experience at third base will likely be what is in Walcott's immediate future and in the team's best interest. He has started plenty of games there in his minor league career but that may have been happenstance before.

There is likely something brewing here and it is a positive thing. Having fluidity among positions is a desirable trait and it has allowed Josh Smith to blossom as a key utility piece for the franchise.

There is no better time for Walcott to learn another position. It is hard to teach an old dog new tricks so why not build him up now and allow him to struggle where the importance in winning is not paramount.

Where will Walcott play next?

Evan Carter and Wyatt Langford along with Seager and Semien leave right field and third base wide open for Walcott, which have been disappointing outcomes for Garcia, who likely will be dealt at the deadline, and for Jung.

With Walcott's rocket arm, Jung should be on red alert for the future but is probably good for now. As soon as there is clarity for the Rangers post-draft and trade deadline, Walcott will get looks in right field.

The transition from shortstop to third base is easy but shortstop to right is drastically different. Jac Caglianone has shown that with the right talent level, anything is possible.

The Rangers likely want to rocket Walcott to the MLB next year and having him learn third base and right field certainly accelerates the clock. For Walcott to get to the MLB sooner rather than later, adapting to and learning new positions is the best outcome for the organization.