Rangers hope to find diamond in the rough with former San Diego Padres infielder

The offseason has been a busy one for the Texas Rangers, who quietly added veteran infielder Tyler Wade to a minor-league deal, hoping to spend some time on the big league squad towards the end of his career. 

Wade, 31, will most likely spend spring training in major league camp as a non-roster invitee, hoping to make enough of an impact to find himself on the 40-man roster come Opening Day. The utility man comes with much-needed defensive experience, having spent time at second base, shortstop and the outfield during his seven year career.

Wade's versatility gives Rangers flex options around the diamond

His versatility gives the Rangers options as to where he might be able to slot in, especially with the departure of Marcus Semien in the infield. Wade’s role will become clearer when the calendar inches closer to spring but it’s looking likely that he’ll be an option to help fill holes in the infield.

The downside to Wade’s game lies at the plate, as he has never been able to produce at a consistent rate. In his 992 plate appearances since debuting with the New York Yankees in 2017, the left-hander has tallied a .216 batting average with seven home runs and 60 RBIs. The lack of consistency could be a concern for the Rangers heading into camp and could be the factor that keeps fans from ever seeing the former Padre in Arlington/

Nevertheless, this seems to be a good move on behalf of the Rangers. Wade can help other veterans like Seager and DeGrom guide what is looking to be a fairly young Texas team given the departures of some recent Rangers fixtures.

In addition, major league experience for minor league money is well worth it. Even if he doesn’t make the team coming out of camp, young guys like Cody Freeman and Evan Carter can benefit from having him around day in and day out when the season is ramping up.