When Elvis Andrus went on the IL last night, Willie Calhoun got called up, not only got put into the lineup as the DH but got put in the two spot in the order. Calhoun has been somewhat of a controversial topic in the organization this season.
He did not make the major league roster at the beginning of the year and he was visibly upset about it. But when it came down to it, it was either him or Hunter Pence. The decision has worked out well for the Rangers, but Calhoun finally has his chance.
But where does he fit into this lineup? Currently, it seems as if he is going to be the DH and possibly play a little bit of outfield. However, could Willie end up taking Odor’s spot as the second baseman soon?
Well, one day in Nashville…
Willie Calhoun played second base at Nashville on Friday night…. that was his old position before moving to the outfield….. Looking to increase his versatility it seems like
— TR Sullivan (@Sullivan_Ranger) April 27, 2019
When Calhoun was originally drafted by the Dodgers, he was a second baseman. He has played second base in Rookie, A, A+, AA, and AAA in the Dodgers and Rangers organizations.
When Bannister was the manager, he was adamant that Calhoun would not be playing second base and the team would be sticking with Odor. What does Woodward have in store?
His AAA numbers were impressive. He hit .304 with eight home runs and 22 RBIs. Walking more than he struck out, his OBP was at .416. That is his best OBP since playing in A ball in 2015. The power is obviously there and so is the ability to hit for average.
If Odor and his struggles continue, and Calhoun starts to heat up, Calhoun could easily become the starting second baseman. The outfield is full of Pence, Choo, Gallo, and Mazara. If one of those four players are not in the outfield, there is a good chance they will be in the DH spot. With that ally full, you have to ride the hot hand of a prospect you got from the Yu Darvish trade. If his AAA numbers translate to the big leagues, all of this is a huge possibility.
Night one started out well going 2-5 with a first inning two run homer and a single to right field. We know he has continually worked hard. Let’s see if it translates to the big leagues, and when it is time for Elvis to get called back from the IL if he remains on the major league roster.
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