Rangers Rumors: Do they have a chance at getting the next Babe Ruth?

The Texas Rangers are making a major push to lure Shohei Otani, the Babe Ruth of Japan, away from Japan and to north Texas. Do they really have a chance?

The Texas Rangers are no strangers to international scouting. Considered to be one of the best team at international signings, the Rangers have their eyes set on the Cadillac of international prospects, Shohei Otani.

Shohei Otani, known as “the Babe Ruth of Japan” breaks the mold of international prospects. The 22-year-old power hitter projects well as top-notch power hitter in MLB. But his power at the plate is not where the Babe Ruth comparisons end. Otani is also a dominant pitcher

As discussed last week in How good is Shohei Otani (link at the bottom of the page), Otani regularly throws in the 97mph+ range and has two addition plus pitches to air with his velocity. Unnamed MLB scouts gave him a 6/7 grade as a pitching prospect, meaning he’s a Day 1 No. 3 pitcher and a future No. 2 pitcher. And they don’t rule out “ace” potential.

It’s not every day a player projects as both a league leader in power AND pitching but that’s exactly what Shohei Otani potentially brings. But with such great expectations does a team like the Texas Rangers realistically have a shot?

As reported by Jeff Passan at Yahoo Sports, the Rangers may have more than just a chance:

"“One scout is convinced the Texas Rangers are the favorites for Otani. Another GM believes the same…”"

Many assumed teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Seattle Mariners would have the leg up on the rest of the league. With loaded rosters, large markets, and significant Japanese populations, these teams have a lot to offer a player like Otani.

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One thing is for sure, money won’t be a factor between these teams. Due to changes in the international bonus system, teams are limited to what they can offer a prospect under 25. Because of this, Otani will be turning down roughly $200 million just to move to MLB.

If he does follow through with the move, he will have proven that short term investment planning is not his greatest concern. He’d be eyeing the long-term. But still, a team like the Texas Rangers could have a slight leg-up on the competition since Texas has no state income tax (never mind our property taxes are ridiculous).

Another factor working in the Texas Rangers favor that longtime friend and offseason workout buddy, Yu Darvish, has already paved the way in the Lone Star State. Moving overseas to a new country and into a new work environment can be tough and extremely intimidating. Never underestimate the value of a familiar face.

Next week we’ll discuss the reasons to re-sign Yu Darvish – Shohei Otnai being one of those reasons.

Finally, the Rangers playing in the American League will probably play to their favor. If Otani really wants to pitch AND hit the American League would let him work in the rotation and DH in between pitching starts.

Next: Scouting: How good is Shohei Otani anyway?

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The Texas Rangers don’t just have a chance but they are very likely the favorites to land Shohei Otani this offseason. Assuming, of course, Otani really does make the move…

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