Monday Newsletter time: Rangers minor-league pitchers have opportunity squashed by lockout
A noteworthy group of arms will stay in minor-league camp to stay on target for the beginning of the regular season.
Notably missing from the list of internal invitees from Texas Rangers minor-league camp to big-league spring training are Cole Winn, Jack Leiter and Cole Ragans.
And Owen White, Cody Bradford and Zak Kent.
There’s a reason, and it’s the same reason that everything is really screwy right now at the Surprise Recreation Campus.
The lockout has forced six weeks of spring training into four and reduced the Cactus League schedule from 33 to 18. Pitchers who have a chance at the Opening Day roster need all the innings.
The group of the six starters above will stay on schedule in minor-league camp for the start of the regular seasons, which begin April 5 (Triple A) and April 8 (others). They likely would have already been moved to the minor-league side during a normal spring.
“They'll still get a chance to pitch out here in some games,” president of baseball operations Jon Daniels said. “But we're not going to disrupt their program where they're at because they're already midway into their buildup.”
It’s not so much the innings that the prospects are missing out on, but the experience of being in the big-league clubhouse to soak in the atmosphere and continuing building relationships with their future teammates and coaches.
“It was hard telling these guys they're not coming to camp because we know how valuable the experience is,” general manager Chris Young said. “It's just weird circumstances this year.”
The Rangers invited only three pitching prospects: left-handed starter Jake Latz and right-handed relievers Chase Lee and Daniel Robert.
“I just feel like I'm extremely lucky to kind of be out here with everybody,” Robert said. “Just try and make the most of the opportunity and experience, and every day is a chance to grow and get better. I can't think of a better place to do that than big-league spring training.”
Rule 5 relief
Robert, Ragans and outfielder Bubba Thompson finally received clarity Thursday on what would happen with the Rule 5 draft.
It’s not happening.
It was nixed because of the lockout and the potential logistical issues that were in front of teams and players. For instance, the Rangers weren’t too keen on the idea of pitching Roberts and Ragans or playing Thompson in Cactus League games to be scouted ahead of a post-camp draft.
“We had some tough decisions last fall and left some guys unprotected who could have been appealing,” Daniels said. “Ultimately, I think they’ll get an opportunity with us, which is best-case scenario. We had some names we were considering with other clubs, but we’re good with that trade-off.”
Robert and Ragans said they hadn’t put too much thought into the draft, whereas Thompson said it had been in his mind throughout the offseason and during the start of minor-league camp.
“It was kind of out of my control,” Robert said. “So the past couple days I was just trying to work as hard as I can, get with all the pitching coaches, and just keep getting better, honestly.”
Video of the Day
Sunday was report day for big-league spring training, and with only a few exceptions were not on site. The ones who weren’t present were either traveling internationally or their deals haven’t been announced just yet.
The two big offseason additions were on the field. Second baseman Marcus Semien worked out with the rest of the group, and shortstop Corey Seager showed up later and did some fielding work with coach Corey Ragsdale.
Semien took batting practice with another newcomer, Kole Calhoun, and 2021 All-Star Adolis Garcia.
Here is video from Semien’s first swings with the Rangers. Also, remember to subscribe to the Texas Rangers Baseball Podcast YouTube channel (it’s free) for all kinds of videos.
ICYMI …
The whirlwind sweeping baseball since the end of the MLB lockout has swept up the Newsletter. Lots of stories have been written, with more to come. Here’s the latest, in case you missed it.
The Sunday Read: Rangers still shopping
Isiah Kiner-Falefa traded to Twins
Rangers facing COVID conundrum
Friday on the Farm: Players who impressed
Doggy video!
He’sat his own 10, makes a man miss, sidesteps another, he breaks free … . Enjoy. See you Tuesday.
Have y’all noticed anyone in big league or minor league camp that has a legit shot to get an opportunity during the season on the 26 man roster (not currently on it)?