Texas Rangers interest in Kevin Plawecki could set up other moves
It may not take long for Kevin Plawecki to find another job.
According to Evan Grant from the Dallas Morning News, the Texas Rangers are heavily interested in signing the former Red Sox catcher. While he would not be eligible to sign until Wednesday once he clears waivers, Grant further reported that the Rangers are looking to put Nick Solak on the Injured List and would need another player on the roster.
Texas Rangers eyeing 2022-23 offseason with Kevin Plawecki signing
Plawecki being designated for assignment did not go over well in Boston. Veteran pitchers Nathan Eovaldi and Rich Hill were vocal in their displeasure, especially considering that he had been handed his walking papers after their game on Friday night. While his numbers may have justified such a move, he is a respected leader and locker room presence, a player who is valued for what he brings off the field.
Eovaldi’s defense of Plawecki, and his reaction to the loss of the backstop, is of particular interest. He is slated to be a free agent at the end of the season and could look to move on from Boston. The Rangers are expected to spend once again in free agency, especially as they look to bolster their starting rotation.
With those offseason plans in mind, the Rangers’ decision to bring Plawecki on board makes sense. Despite having a solid group of catchers already on board, they are keeping an eye on the future, especially as it comes to filling out their pitching staff.
There would still be plenty of work left to be done even if the Rangers land Eovaldi. He would pair with Jon Gray to provide a solid second and third starter in the rotation, but they would still need that top of the rotation arm. However, by paying attention to the human element and bringing in players respected in the locker room, they may be able to get those upgrades they desperately need in order to contend once more.
Next. Rangers getting look at future. dark
The Texas Rangers have plenty of work to do on their pitching staff this offseason. Bringing Kevin Plawecki on board could be the start of those plans.