The Texas Rangers have signed the intriguing Matt Davidson to a minor league contract.
The Texas Rangers are heading into the 2019 with a major hole on the left side of their infield. Future Hall of Famer Adrian Beltre is gone, taking his Gold Glove defense, powerful bat, and entertaining personality into retirement with him. In responce, the Rangers signed Asdrubal Cabrera with the idea that he would become the primary third baseman in 2019.
However, Cabrera has typically functioned more as a utility man than strictly a third baseman in recent years. As such, that position could still be up for grabs should a player make an impression during Spring Training. A player such as Matt Davidson, who the Rangers signed to a minor league contract.
Infielder Matt Davidson is in agreement on a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers, league sources tell ESPN. Davidson will be used as an infield and could pitch as well, giving the Rangers their own two-way possibility.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 1, 2019
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Davidson had his best season in the majors as a batter last season, producing a .228/.319/.419 batting line, worth a 103 OPS+. While he struck out 165 times in his 496 plate appearances, he did hit 23 doubles and 20 homers, while showing an improved batting eye. A potential option at either first or third base, he could be an intriguing bat off the bench in Texas.
Yet, that power bat is not the only reason why Davidson is such an interesting player. The Rangers are going to allow him to develop as a two way player, giving Davidson a chance to build on the three scoreless innings he fired last year. Texas also needs bullpen help, and Davidson may be able to contribute there as well.
For a team looking for long term pieces, Davidson could end up being a part of the Rangers future. He is still under team control for four more years, and has not yet reached arbitration. Davidson could prove to be an answer for Texas.
The Texas Rangers have signed Matt Davidson to a minor league contract. He could end up being one of the bargains of the offseason.
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