Texas Rangers: Possible Landing Spots for Ian Desmond
By Jason Reed
After arguably his best season in the majors, Ian Desmond‘s value is at an all time high. After taking a one year deal with the Texas Rangers last year, Desmond should cash in this time through free agency.
The former shortstop Ian Desmond crafted a masterful season playing outfield for the Texas Rangers. Desmond slashed .285/.335/.446 with 22 homers, 86 runs batted in, and 21 stolen bases. Last season Desmond proved his worth as an all-around contributor at the big league level. Last off-season Texas offered Desmond a one year, eight million dollar contract. Now, after a career year, Desmond may see himself making twice that amount.
Desmond’s flexibility to play all three outfield positions along with his middle-infield history makes him a very valuable asset. Although his fielding numbers aren’t the best in the outfield, his fielding is good enough to get him by. At shortstop or perhaps second base he is amazing, so teams can keep that in mind as well.
Regardless, his bat is his biggest asset to any team, and whoever signs him likely is signing him for his offensive production. Desmond provides above average power, good contact, and great speed. Although he did benefit from hitting in the Rangers line-up, it shouldn’t be overlooked the turnaround he had and the contributions he can make to a team in need.
Desmond will certainly have a plethora of teams offering him a contract. The reason for this is he can fit almost any need a team may have. If they have a hole in the outfield he can play outfield, if they need a middle infielder he can be a middle infielder. Heck, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Desmond potentially play games at the corner infield spots next season if need be. Therefore, Desmond may be on the radar for the majority of MLB ball clubs. The big question is – where exactly will Ian Desmond find himself in 2017?