Rangers add three 2017 Riders to 40-man roster

Opening Day 2018 may still be 135 days away but we took another step toward the new season yesterday with the newest additions to the Rangers 40-man roster.

Texas added six of its Minor League players, including 2017 Riders Jose Trevino, Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ariel Jurado. Additionally, pitchers Jonathan Hernandez, Brett Martin and Joe Palumbo were added from the Advanced-A Down East squad.

For those unfamiliar with the importance of yesterday, the fact that those six guys were added to the 40-man roster means they can’t be snatched by other teams in this year’s Rule 5 draft. They’re still not on the big league squad (yet) but they’re certainly another step closer.

As far as the three 2017 Riders are concerned, there aren’t really any surprises here. With the defensive prowess and leadership of Jose Trevino, the unmatched versatility and newfound power from Isiah Kiner-Falefa, and the groundball-inducing dominance we’ve seen at times from Ariel Jurado, all three had a chance of being poached by one of the other 29 MLB clubs if they weren’t protected. All three are deserving and could be in Arlington as September call-ups next year (if not sooner).

That said, there were still guys who had a chance to make the 40-man who didn’t this time around (Reed Garrett and Sam Wolff are a few examples that come to mind). The next date to post on your calendar is December 14, which marks this year’s Rule 5 draft. Any players left unprotected yesterday (Scott Lucas of the Newberg report has a good list here) are now available for the taking.

We’re slowly checking milestones off our path to Opening Day April 5. Together, we’ll get through the winter together and spring will be here before you know it.

Until next time, Happy Thanksgiving!

-Ryan