Texas Rangers’ David Murphy in the mix to fill in for Josh Hamilton in outfield – MLB Update
A robust David Murphy will be featuring in the Texas Rangers out-field for the majority of the time that Josh Hamilton will spend on the disabled list. Murphy’s first game in left-field came on Monday’s loss against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.
Filling in for the injured All-Star, Murphy has the tough task to step up as a premier hitter and fielder in the squad.
Manager Ron Washington believes the make-shift out-fielder can deliver well in his new temporary role. Off to a flying start, the Rangers are currently 9-3. Leading the American League West, the club is scheduled to take on the New York Yankees at the Yankees
stadium.
Hamilton’s loss came on Tuesday when a head-first slide towards the home plate saw him fracture his right shoulder.
Believed to be out for the next six to eight weeks, the Rangers are looking to Murphy to replicate his performance from the last twelve games. Going 2-for-4 against the Tigers in Michigan, the temporary out-fielder drove in a run and posted a hitting average
of .500.
At the moment, Murphy stands on a .350 average. He is 7-for-20 and has availed four runs to show for his stint in the strike zone. Murphy has an on-base percentage of .409 and a slugging ratio of .550. He smashed a home run in the second outing against the
Boston Red Sox on 3 April. That is something Hamilton has failed to do thus far.
"It's not like I have never done this before," Murphy said. "I've been staying prepared in case something happens. I want to play, but I don't want my playing time to come through a teammate getting hurt. Anytime you lose an MVP in the lineup, it's a crushing
blow. There is no need for me to be Josh Hamilton. I'm going to play my game and make the most of my opportunity."
Whatever the case may be, the player is said to fit the right chord with the need of the club and if things do not work out, Washington has Chris Davis on the bench to fill in.
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