The Texas Rangers are making a bold move that could reshape their infield dynamics—and it’s not what you’d expect. Instead of splurging on big-name free agents or trade targets, the Rangers are betting on their own talent to fill the void at second base. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a savvy cost-saving strategy or a risky gamble that could backfire? Let’s dive in.
Following last month’s blockbuster Marcus Semien-for-Brandon Nimmo trade, the Rangers find themselves with a glaring hole at second base. However, according to Jeff Wilson of DLLS Sports, the team plans to address this gap internally rather than looking outside the organization. This decision puts the spotlight on 28-year-old utility player Josh Smith, who has been a jack-of-all-trades across the diamond but now emerges as a strong candidate to take over at second base—at least against right-handed pitching.
Smith, a left-handed hitter and former second-round pick, has shown promise at the plate. Over the past two seasons, he’s slashed a combined .254/.336/.380 with 23 home runs, 53 doubles, and 23 stolen bases in 1,155 plate appearances. While second base hasn’t been his most frequent position—he’s logged just 41 innings there—this could be his chance to shine. But here’s the part most people miss: Smith’s opportunity is largely due to Semien’s iron man status, which left little room for others to step in. Now, with Semien gone, the door is wide open.
But is Smith the only answer? Other internal options include Ezequiel Duran, Cody Freeman, and Justin Foscue, all of whom are on the 40-man roster. Duran showed flashes in 2023 but has struggled since, hitting just .237/.278/.309 in 504 plate appearances since 2024. Freeman dominated in Triple-A last year but failed to replicate that success in the majors, while Foscue has faced defensive questions and has yet to prove himself at the big-league level. So, while these players could step up, none have matched Smith’s offensive production.
And this is where it gets really interesting: the Rangers’ most exciting option might still be years away. Sebastian Walcott, a 19-year-old shortstop widely regarded as one of the top prospects in baseball, could eventually shift to second base. Last year, he held his own in Double-A, hitting .255/.355/.386 with 13 home runs and 32 steals. But with Corey Seager firmly planted at shortstop, Walcott’s timeline to the majors remains uncertain.
So, is the Rangers’ internal approach a smart move or a risky gamble? Given the team’s goal of reducing payroll, signing a high-profile free agent like Bo Bichette was never in the cards. But even second-tier options like Jorge Polanco or trade targets like Brendan Donovan seem off the table. Instead, the Rangers appear content to add minor league depth or pursue bargain deals late in the offseason. GM Ross Fenstermaker has hinted at an opportunistic approach, but for now, a major splash seems unlikely.
In other Rangers news, President of Baseball Operations Chris Young has expressed “extreme” interest in re-signing reliever Josh Sborz, who was non-tendered last week. Sborz, coming off shoulder surgery, had a rollercoaster 2023 season, pitching brilliantly in the playoffs after a late-season slump. However, his rehab stint in 2025 was cut short due to velocity issues, leaving his future uncertain. If Sborz re-signs on a minor league deal, his familiarity with the team could give him an edge—but only if his shoulder is fully recovered.
Here’s the big question for you: Is the Rangers’ internal approach to second base a stroke of genius or a recipe for disaster? Do they have enough talent in-house to compete, or are they risking a weak spot in their lineup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
