Texas Rangers: The incredible story of Chris Nunn

Thanks to modern technology and a new app, the Texas Rangers signed an intriguing pitcher that may have otherwise been overlooked.

Over the past few years, the Texas Rangers have had success finding pitchers off of the scrap heap. Austin Bibens-Dirkx and Brandon Mann were given a chance in the majors by Texas, career minor leaguers that had minimal expectations of success at the time of the signing. However, the Rangers latest reclamation project has a lot more notoriety already, thanks to Twitter and the Flatground app.

It is possible that you have already seen Chris Nunn on Twitter. The former minor leaguer had sent his video to Flatground, hoping that someone would see it and give him a chance. As there are not many lefties throwing 97 MPH, it is understandable that his performance caught a great deal of attention.

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That video grabbed the Rangers attention, as they sent a scout to watch Nunn throw. Expectations were minimal, and they were not exactly looking to sign a pitcher. But then, he threw, impressing the scout and leading to a minor league deal with the Rangers.

Nunn had spent time in affiliated ball before. He was originally a 24th round draft pick by the San Diego Padres in 2012, rising through the ranks quickly as he reached the AA level by 2015. However, injuries, particularly with his hip, sapped his velocity derailed his career. Nunn bounced to the Cubs organization and in independent ball before getting a look with the Astros last year.

Nunn performed well in AA for the Astros organization, posting a 1.80 ERA and a 1.350 WHiP in 20 innings, striking out 23 batters with eight walks. However, he did not fare as well at AAA, where Nunn posted a 13.50 ERA and a 2.045 WHiP over 7.1 innings, striking out nine batters, but issuing six walks.

Right now, the plan is for Nunn to return to AAA for the Rangers. His hip is healthy, and if he can find success at AAA, it is not inconcievable that he reaches the majors. The Rangers do need to find long term solutions, both in the bullpen and in the rotation. Nunn could be a part of that future, especially if he performs well in his time in the minors.

The Texas Rangers have signed internet sensation Chris Nunn to a minor league deal. If he can stay healthy, he could be a part of the Rangers future.