The Rangers Report - Off-season Editions

My Niece is staying over the night with me, so we're up right now.  She's playing with her toy frog (more like eating it, actually) as we speak.

So, let's take a look at some Non-Tender Musings

Ben Broussard Now A Ranger

All it really cost the Rangers was Tim "Tug" Hulett Jr., who was eligible for the Rule 5 Draft and wasn't taken.  He may make a career as a utility guy, he may not.  We'll see.

As for Broussard, right now I'm penciling him in as the starting first baseman.  That leaves a likely lineup of the following:

1. KInsler (2B)
2. Cat (LF)
3. Young (SS)
4. Blalock (3B)
5. Bradley (DH)
6. Broussard (1B)
7. Salty (C)
8. Murphy (RF)
9. Byrd (CF)

It's a slightly stronger lineup than before, but it's not going to strike the fear of god in you.

What this does raise questions about is what the future will be for Shelton, Botts and Cruz.  If this is the lineup, than something is going to happen soon to get rid of one of these guys.  I have a feeling that Cruz may not survive the off-season.  Botts could see everyday playing time in Left Field and at DH to give Bradley a break, while Murphy and Byrd could be rotated as needed.  Which means that Cruz is likely getting the boot.

God damn it, this team needs better outfield options.  This is getting #### ridiculous.

Bye Bye Aki

Akinori Otsuka was non-tendered, bringing the last remnant of the Chris Young/Adrian Gonzalez trade to an end.

Aki was hurt, but there was some progress in his rehab.  However, I wonder how long he would have been able to have pitched for the full season.  Would he have been ready in time for the season?  I'm not sure.

And does any of this have to do with the fact that he recommended San Diego over Texas to Kosuke Fukudome?

If so, that's petty.  But I'm taking the high road and choosing injury.

So long Aki.  We hardly knew ye.

Other Non-Tenders To Look At

• Mark Prior (RHP - Former Cub) - Eh, what the hell.  Gabbard's got options left and if Prior can bounce back a bit, he could be something worthwhile.  And could even be worth a draft pick or two if he books.
• Kiki Calero (RHP - Former A) - Could be a nice, buy low opportunity for the pen.
• Dallas McPherson (3B - Former Angel) - Maybe, still has some potential.  Is also made out of glass.
• Emil Brown (LF - Royals) - Could form a decent platoon with Cat.

Okay, someone's hungry.  Time to warm up a bottle...