Texas Rangers ‘Serious Contenders’ To Sign Torii Hunter

July 13, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder Torii Hunter (48) hits a single in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
July 13, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers right fielder Torii Hunter (48) hits a single in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Texas Rangers are said to be ‘serious contenders’ to sign veteran outfielder Torii Hunter.

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Many would argue the last thing the Texas Rangers need is a 39-year-old outfielder who is clearly past his prime, but that appears to be what they have interest in as their pursuit of former All-Star Torii Hunter continues.

The Rangers are just one of many teams interested in signing the veteran though Jon Heyman of CBS Sports notes they’re one of ‘serious contenders’ to do so.

Perhaps that has to do with their locale given Torii Hunter has a home in Proper, Texas and would essentially be playing out the final year or two his career close to friends and family.

Still, despite the close proximity to home it’s not as if the Texas Rangers won’t have to pony up the pennies to sign Torri Hunter considering how much interest he’s said to be drawing. An 18-year vet, not only will Torii Hunter help on the field but he’ll be just as important in the locker room which is where much of his worth comes from.

Statistically, Hunter is still getting it done as the outfielder hit a very respectable .286 last season and also clubbed 17 home runs and drove in 83 RBI. Of course, he did so in the Detroit Tigers lineup which was ripe with impressive hitting talent like Miguel Cabrera and he won’t have such protection with the Texas Rangers. You also have to wonder when (or if) Hunter will hit that proverbial wall and his skills fall off the side of a cliff.

For now though Hunter, who is one of the most in-shape players in Major League Baseball, appears ready to play another season or two of baseball. For who remains to be seen, though it appears the Texas Rangers are on the short list for his services.

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