The Texas Rangers are off to a busy start this offseason. It was announced on Sunday afternoon that the Rangers have signed free agent infielder Marcus Semien. The agreement is for $175 million over seven years. This is a huge move for Texas, as it puts an established veteran presence in their lineup. Semien has the ability to play both shortstop and second base. He’ll definitely bring some much-needed depth to the Rangers in both an offensive and defensive capacity.
Coming Off a Great Season
Semien spent the 2021 campaign with the Toronto Blue Jays. In the 2020 offseason, he signed with Toronto, once again as a free agent, for one year and $18 million. It was a great season for Semien, as the 31-year old played in all 162 games for the Jays. He proceeded to hit 45 home runs, thus setting a single-season record for a primary second baseman. He also drove in 102 runs and scored 115 runs. He hit .265 and had a .874 OPS. He also stole 15 bases on the year. Texas Rangers fans have plenty to be excited about with the signing of Semien.
Much Needed Change
The 2021 season was a rebound of sorts for Semien. During the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, he played in 53 games for the Oakland Athletics. Over the course of those games, he hit .223 with seven home runs and had an OPS of .679. So it seems that the move from Oakland to Toronto was needed for Semien.
Other 2021 Accolades
The Texas Rangers are getting an All-Star in this deal. During the 2021 season, Semien earned his first career All-Star nod, as well as a Silver Slugger award. He also did his part in the infield, winning a Gold Glove award last year at second base. He’ll join an infield made up of Yonny Hernandez, Andy Ibanez, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Nathaniel Lowe, and Nick Solak among others.
Main Photo:
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Players Mentioned:
Marcus Semien, Yonny Hernandez, Andy Ibanez, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Nathaniel Lowe, Nick Solak
