MLB Free Agency: Best fits for Dodgers reliever Brandon Morrow
By Jason Reed
3. Texas Rangers
Two seasons ago the Texas Rangers led the American League in wins and finished with a comfortable eight-game cushion from the Seattle Mariners. Now, the Rangers had to watch the division rivaled Houston Astros win their first ever World Series — something the Rangers are yet to do — all while winning just 78 games.
Not only did the Rangers suffer a 17-game downfall in the 2017 season, they also finished second to last in saves. Texas only recorded 29 saves last season and were the only 70+ win team in the bottom six. The San Diego Padres, who won 71 games last season, finished eighth in the MLB with 45 saves.
Texas needs a closer. Alex Claudio led the team in saves with 11.Although his 2.50 ERA and left-handed arm may be pleasing, he does not have the stuff to be a season-long closer. With talent still on the team, the Rangers need to focus on winning as many games as they can to get their guys experience. That starts with the closer position.
The only problem is the closer market is shaky. Trevor Rosenthal is available, as is Greg Holland, Wade Davis and Fernando Rodney. Those guys certainly have good aspects about them but with such a shallow closer pool to choose from those guys will naturally sign with contenders.
Thus, the Rangers will be left in a sticky situation. However, that sticky situation can be solved by signing Brandon Morrow. Morrow has proven he has the stuff to be a closer and all it takes now is a team to be confident in him.