Jose Leclerc The Front-Runner For Rangers Closer Role?
2 years agoTexas Rangers general manager Chris Young named several players currently on the roster as potential options to serve as the team's closer in an interview Saturday, per the Athletic's Levi Weaver. This included Jose Leclerc, Jonathan Hernandez, Ian Kennedy, Danny Duffy, Brett Martin, and Brock Burke. Joe Barlow would also be considered in this mix. However, it sounded as though Leclerc would be the initial candidate given his history. The 29-year-old pitched well in 2022 after returning from Tommy John surgery, converting seven of nine save opportunities with a 2.83 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, and 27.3% strikeout rate. There are a number of players on the Rangers who have some closer experience, including Leclerc. The biggest issue for him has been walks, as he owns a career 5.32 BB/9 rate. The Rangers appear slated to be a more competitive team this season, so whoever is closing for them would hold fantasy value, although the role may not be consistent. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on further developments as things get closer to the start of the season.
Source: Levi Weaver - The Athletic
Source: Levi Weaver - The Athletic