Texas Rangers hope to extend Jon Daniels

With just one year remaining on his existing contract, the Texas Rangers will reportedly look to extend Jon Daniels before the start of Spring Training. Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas relayed news of the team’s plans after speaking with team co-chairman Ray Davis.

Texas has been actively looking to complete a new deal, but talks have been limited as Daniels searched for a new manager.

"“We’ve been consumed for the last month on this, so [Daniels’ extension] will fall in place,” Davis said."

Daniels first assumed the GM’s role with the Rangers in 2005 and at the time was the youngest GM in MLB history. He’s since led the franchise to three playoff appearances, including two division titles. Texas reached the World Series in back-to-back years, losing in 2010 to the San Francisco Giants and in 2011 to the St. Louis Cardinals.

Following the departure of Nolan Ryan in 2013, Daniels was promoted to President, Baseball Operations.

Texas finished the 2014 season at 67-95, their first losing season since 2008. The roster was ravaged by injuries throughout the season to key players both in the field and on the mound.

With Ron Washington‘s resignation before the season ended, Daniels’ first offseason priority instantly became addressing the need for a new manager. Washington had been hired in 2007, leading the team to an overall mark of 664-611 in eight years at the helm. Jeff Banister was named as the club’s new on field leader earlier this week after spending 29 years working within the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. He has managed in the minor leagues, but this will mark his first MLB managerial opportunity. Banister was given a three year deal, with the option for a fourth.

With Banister’s hiring complete, Daniels can turn his attention to addressing the team’s needs. Many of the players lost to injury in 2014 are expected to be healthy in time for Spring Training. Texas will likely be looking to add a corner outfielder, after declining the option on Alex Rios‘ contract, and a catcher. Second base may also be a question, depending on Jurickson Profar‘s health status and whether the team is committed to giving Rougned Odor an extended chance.

The Rangers will also likely be looking to add at least one starting pitcher this offseason, regardless of whether then end up re-signing Colby Lewis or not. Matt Harrison and Martin Perez are both recovering from major surgeries and may not be ready for the start of the season. Yu Darvish, Alexi Ogando, and Tanner Scheppers were all sidelined with elbow concerns as well. Adding depth on the mound could be key to how the team plans on approaching the 2015 season.