Friday on the Farm: The top five second basemen in the Texas Rangers system need to be flexible
With Marcus Semien signing a seven-year contract, the best at second base have to become more versatile.
The future at second base for the Texas Rangers was wide open a week ago, with perhaps as many as four of the team’s top 10 prospects candidates to man the position for years to come.
Then, Sunday arrived. Monday made an impact, too. Once the deals for free agents Marcus Semien and Corey Seager became official Wednesday, the future at second base and shortstop for the Rangers was set.
Semien signed a seven-year, $175 million deal to play second base. Perhaps if Seager hadn’t signed to be the shortstop for 10 years and $325 million, second base might still be open with Semien at shortstop.
The prospects at both positions have seen massive roadblocks appear on their paths to the major leagues. A shortstop was anticipated. Both a shortstop and second baseman, though, seemed like a long shot.
What lies ahead is continued development for the prospects at both position, but they will likely also be asked to try other positions, to become more versatile, to learn reach the majors and still be productive.
The Rangers could also trade some of their prospects up the middle.
The Texas Rangers Newsletter looked at the top five shortstops in the organization last week. Next up is a look at the five best second baseman.
Their futures have been shaken up, but they’re still valuable pieces.