"Out of Bounds"
All-TIme Texas Rangers
Nolan Ryan Fergie Jenkins Charlie Hough Kenny Rogers John Wetteland
Juan Gonzalez Ruben Sierra Mickey Rivers
Ivan Rodriguez Jim Sundberg
Buddy Bell Toby Harrah Julio Franco Rafael Palmeiro
Larry Parrish Jose Canseco Dean Palmer Rusty Greer
Pitchers
Infielders
Outfielders
Catchers
Designated Hitters / Utility Players
In choosing the All-Time Rangers, I wanted to avoid simply selecting the best players that ever passed through the organization. Rather, the OOB Texas Rangers team is comprised of those who made their marks on the baseball legacy in Arlington. These are the players that personify Rangers baseball history.
For example, Gaylord Perry was one of the greatest pitchers ever to play for the Rangers, but his short time with the club does not justify his inclusion. Jim Kern had one or two great seasons with Texas, but did not do overall for the club what John Wetteland has, so he is my closer. Names like Ryan, Jenkins, and Hough are easily accepted. Kenny Rogers is included for being the best LHP the team has had, and largely for his perfect game against the Angels.
The infield was easy. Palmeiro, Franco, Harrah, and Bell were immediate choices. The catcher position is simple too, although the urge to include Ned Yost was great. (That was sarcasm, for those of you who don't remember him.)
Choices "at large" round out the team for DH and utility purposes. "LP" is an easy choice. Canseco did not spend a lot of years with the club, but wrote a colorful history while he was here an the fans love him. Rusty Greer embodies everything the 1990's Rangers have been. And Dean Palmer was always a slugging force with Texas.
And the best manager and GM the club ever had? Easy. The only time the Rangers have ever advanced to the playoffs has been during the tenure of Johnny Oates and Doug Melvin. At the same time, Melvin has replenished the farm system to help ensure competitiveness for years to come.
