Nicky Lopez was just designated for assignment by the Chicago Cubs in April, but was quickly picked up by the Texas Rangers a month later. Unfortunately for the veteran infielder, he has yet to make the most of his opportunities.
Originally a 2016 fifth-round draft pick, Lopez started the year in the Windy City. However, he did not have a good start in what will actually be his eighth season in the MLB, going 0-8 in his four games played with the Cubs.
He was hoping to take advantage of his opportunities in Arlington, getting his first opportunities at the end of the series against Houston. Unfortunately for him, his hitting hasn't gotten much better, with only three hits in his first 13 at bats.
Nicky Lopez's first 💣 as a Ranger! pic.twitter.com/bIBhustbxc
— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) May 30, 2026
Nicky Lopez still needs more time to adjust to the Rangers. Luckily for him, he's got time.
Although as a player, Lopez has never been a player known for his power at the plate. In fact, he's yet to hit the double digits in terms of career home runs, so don't expect him to go yard, even if his first hit as a Ranger was a home run. A two-time Gold Glove Finalist at second base, the draw for him is that he's known as an infield wizard.
That's something he never got the chance to show in Chicago, as he had literally zero fielding opportunities. However, he has definitely demonstrated his abilities so far with the Rangers, achieving a 100 percent fielding percentage through five chances.
Honestly, because he's more of a fielding guy, Lopez still needs a little more time to prove his worth to the Rangers. Fielding can only keep a guy on a roster for so long, and his three hits brought his .000 batting average to .236.
Luckily for him, he'll get that with Corey Seager still dealing with a back injury, Josh Smith recovering from meningitis and Justin Foscue missing in action.
