New Look Rangers: Fantasy Tips

C.J Wilson will be the short term closer

CJ has a sub 2.50 ERA this season, 47 K & 23 BB in 48 IP. Many assumed that Benoit would get the bulk of the save opps, but he’s too valuable in his middle relief role. This may sound silly to most but Benoit has gone over 1.0 IP in four of his last 10 outings.

Jason Botts will get a ton of AB and RBI opportunites

After the trade of Botts, the Rangers recalled Botts. In his first two games of the 2007 season, he batted clean-up. Expect Botts to stay within the 4 to 6 spots for the Rangers, which should translate into decent RBI numbers.

GM Jon Daniels said the following about Botts on August 1st:

“Jason will get the majority of the at-bats,” Daniels said. “The point of calling him up is to give him regular playing time. He has proven all that he can prove at the minors.”

Salty will get see full playing time

Whether it’s at first or behind the plate, Salty should get close to full time Abs for the rest of the season. Currently, Salty is one of three catchers on the Rangers, along with Laird (.234 BA) and Melhuse (.235 BA). In his first two games with the Rangers, Salty has manned first base. Any which way, expect him to see action on a daily basis.

Sosa is going to ride the pine

The Rangers have decided to bring upon a youth movement and have flat out told Sosa that his playing time will be reduced.

“I told Sammy, as an organization, that we are going to do what is best for the team,” Daniels said.
“I understand they have young kids they want to see,” the 38-year-old Sosa said. “I don’t have a problem. They have to see their young prospects.”

If you’re a Sosa owner, find someone with a need for HR & RBI and try your best to get something of value in return.