2009 MLB Team Preview: Texas

Just a rookie last season, Davis could move up rapidly as spring training heats up. Expect a 25 to 30 HR season with more than 85 RBIs.

In 2008 Kinsier made what should be the first of many All Star teams. He is explosive at the plate and hits for power as easy as he hits for average. He's better than average defensively. He's the total package and well on his way to becoming the best second basement in the league.

Rumors have him moving to 3B in 2009 to clear shortstop for prospect Elvis Andrus. At 32 years old, Young may struggle to regain consistency in '09. He has the potential to hit over .300, the runs scored and RBI numbers figure to be impressive batting atop a loaded Texas lineup. He remains an injury risk but still ranks among the top 10-15 shortstops on draft day.

A strong glove should keep the speedster in lineup. Michael Young has moved to 3B to make room for the promising rookie. He won't provide much power but has 30+SB potential.

The late June call up exploded by hitting 10 home runs in his first 89 at-bats. The 22-year-old was up and down but did bat .325 in September. His minor-league numbers and 6-foot-4 frame suggest huge power potential, and playing half his games in the Rangers' hitter-friendly park is an added bonus. His move from first to third base at the end of the season also gives him dual eligibility.

The ultimate high risk / big reward player. His strong 2008 finish could be the sign of a breakout in '09 but he hasn't topped 20 homers since 2000 and has played 65 or less games two years in a row. He does have 1B/3B eligibility and a 25-30 HR season is possible with 600 ABs but that's a big if based on the lengthy injury history.

Rumors have him moving to 3B in 2009 to clear shortstop for prospect Elvis Andrus. At 32 years old, Young may struggle to regain consistency in '09. He has the potential to hit over .300, the runs scored and RBI numbers figure to be impressive batting atop a loaded Texas lineup. He remains an injury risk but still ranks among the top 10-15 shortstops on draft day.

Upside remains, but may not see regular playing time. A trade is a possibility as the Rangers are loaded in the catcher department. He is an injury risk and is questionable defensively so a position switch is also possible. Regardless, his 11 HRs in 2007 is a sign of his potential. He has the upside of a top 10 catcher if he can get regular at bats.

If he wins job, he's worth a look. Teagarden came in with a bang in 2008 by hitting six home runs in 47 at-bats. The Rangers are loaded with catchers (Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Max Ramirez) so playing time will be the biggest hurdle for his fantasy value. His power is top notch but monitor spring training as its likely that Salty will start the season as the #1 catcher.

Ramirez may not have defensive skills to stick behind plate yet. He tore up AAA last season, and has .300/20+ potential if he can win the everyday job in Texas. He possess the talent to put up numbers similar to Geovany Soto. The upside is worth the risk especially in keeper leagues.

The feel good story of all last year, Hamilton had 80 RBI's in the 2nd half. Ranked this low for fear of his late season drop off happening again this year

This guy hit for a lot of power. I n the minor leagues, this is the year we find out if he can do it in the majors or If he is a Quadruple A player.

The ultimate high risk / big reward player. His strong 2008 finish could be the sign of a breakout in '09 but he hasn't topped 20 homers since 2000 and has played 65 or less games two years in a row. He does have 1B/3B eligibility and a 25-30 HR season is possible with 600 ABs but that's a big if based on the lengthy injury history.

Speaking of taking a hold of a rotation spot this young fireballer throws 98 MPH with minimal effort. Will be up wit Texas soon.

Francisco was a complete unknown before his hot September. He averages 11.8SO per 9 innings. Expect a 30 to 35 saves with a few blown ones. Experience is the key for him.