Texas Rangers’ Josh Hamilton unsure about future – MLB News
Days after the Texas Rangers signed Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish, the speculation that the club intends to sign Prince Fielder has not disappeared. Reports indicated on Monday, January 23, that there are still talks about the Rangers pursuing the free-agent
slugger Prince Fielder.
However, to sign Fielder, the club has to decide between him and the hitter Josh Hamilton. Hamilton is reportedly in the last year of his contract. With the end of this season, he will become a free-agent if the Rangers do not extend their contract with
him.
The player who has performed with admirable consistency is looking for a five-year contract worth $100 million. From the onset, it sounds like quite a big sum. Nonetheless, given the high degree of competitiveness exhibited by the player, there is a likelihood
of it.
However, Hamilton, who has had an OPS of .907 in four consecutive seasons, coupled with his ability to help the team qualify for the World Series finals twice, is now being compared with Prince Fielder. This, apparently, unsettles Hamilton.
"It comes down to what you want," Hamilton said on Monday night. "I see people comparing us. Put him in center field and see how long he lasts. Put me at first and see how long I last. He's played 160 games in a season a lot. I haven't. There are pros and
cons. It's pretty fun to watch."
Hamilton, who will turn 31 this year, is occasionally plagued by injuries. That alone has put colossal impact on the player, one way or another. Nonetheless, he wants every matter related to the supposed talks with Prince Fielder to be cleared soon.
“It puts a sense of urgency on getting something done," Hamilton said. "If it doesn't get done, I can focus on what I need to do. It's important to have a clear mind and help the team win."
Nothing is known at this point in time, for sure. As to what the Rangers eventually do will ultimately rely on Hamilton remaining fit and performing the way he has performed for last few years.
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