The Texas Rangers have announced that former second baseman Ian Kinsler is rejoining the team as a special assistant to general manager Chris Young. Kinsler retired after the 2019 season. He has since worked as an advisor for the San Diego Padres. He is currently managing Israel’s World Baseball Classic team this year.
Ian Kinsler returns to the Rangers after being traded to the Tigers in 2013
Kinsler, who was drafted by the Rangers in the 17th round in 2003 from the University of Missouri. He became an All-Star with Texas and was known for his well-rounded game. This included speed, defense, power, and on-base ability. He was almost traded to the Colorado Rockies in 2004. But the deal fell through when Larry Walker vetoed the trade.
After the 2013 season, Kinsler was traded to the Detroit Tigers for Prince Fielder. A deal that has been widely criticized as one of the worst trades in Rangers history. Kinsler went on to have four strong seasons with the Tigers before finishing his career with the Angels, Red Sox, and Padres.
Kinsler was a Powerhouse
Kinsler’s 54.1 career bWAR ranks 20th all-time in MLB history, just behind Hall of Famers Billy Herman and Joe Gordon and Jeff Kent. Just ahead of Dustin Pedroia and Hall of Famers Bid McPhee and Bobby Doerr. While Kinsler’s career may fall short of Hall of Fame induction, he remains one of the best players in Rangers history, and his return to the team is a welcome one.
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