Texas Rangers Adrian Beltre Still Top Priority
By David Hill
Adrian Beltre may have just turned 37 today, but that does not mean that the Texas Rangers do not consider him a part of their future.
Earlier in the offseason, the Texas Rangers and Scott Boras had been negotiating a contract extension for Adrian Beltre, with rumors that Beltre wanted a three year deal worth a total of $57 Million. The now 37 year old third baseman had posted what had been a down season for him in 2015, with a .287/.334/.453 batting line with 18 home runs, making it understandable that the Rangers would balk at such an asking price.
In response, Beltre has stated that he does not want to negotiate an extension during the season, as he does not want to be a distraction. He also stated that he does not feel as though he is a priority for the Rangers at this point, leading to potential feelings of annoyance on his part.
"“I’m not their priority right now. They’re busy doing whatever,” Beltre said. “They don’t have to do anything. I understand that, but I thought that by now I’d have the option to say no to something or say yes.”"
More from Texas Rangers
- Texas Rangers: Josh Jung breaks thumb, Jonathan Ornelas to be called up
- Stock Up, Stock Down: MLB trade deadline winners and losers
- MLB Trade Deadline: AL West roundup with Rangers, Angels, Astros wishlist, A’s and Mariners for sale
- Stock Up, Stock Down: Detroit Tigers, Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, Texas Rangers
- What we got right and wrong about 3 surprising and disappointing MLB teams
However, according to Texas Rangers General Manager Jon Daniels, such thoughts are not correct. Daniels has stated that not only is retaining Beltre a priority for the Rangers, but that they want to keep him for the long haul. The Rangers not only want to keep his production in the lineup, but they also value his presence in the locker room as a leader.
The question is how much of a commitment should the Rangers make to Beltre. Eventually, one would have to imagine that they will give Joey Gallo an extended look, and at Beltre’s age, a three year extension may not make much sense. Should that be what Beltre is truly looking for, then it may be time for the Rangers to move away from the negotiating table.
Adrian Beltre has been a solid performer for the Texas Rangers, and is an important presence in the locker room. However, there is a point in time where the financial outlay just is not worth bringing the player back. Beltre may still be a top priority in Texas, but there comes a point in time where that priority should change.