Rangers Decline Option on Vlad

The Rangers management, namely Chuck and JD, declined the mutual option on Vlad, and will attempt to sign him for less money. We will, however, be forced to pay him a $1 Million buyout charge. Although, ultimately, this seems like it will work out well for both sides. Vlad wants to stay, but it is clear he is not the player he once was. The club seems as if they want him to remain, which hopefully will only be in a limited role.

If we can limit the number of games Vlad plays throughout the year, I feel that he will be more fresh for October and thus be more productive. We saw his production tail off after the All-Star Break. He played in 152 games this year, which is far too many. That number needs to be more around, bear with me, 130. That way, we can get more DH opportunities for Josh, who takes a self-inflicted beating in the outfield on a nightly basis. So by limiting Vlad's games, we can pretty much knock out two birds with one stone, in keeping Vlad fresh for October, and also hopefully limiting Josh's injuries going forward.