Texas Rangers First-Half Player Grades

The Texas Rangers knew they could be here. But did they know they would be here? After 89 games, the Rangers rest with a record of 48-39, 1.5 games back of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. To add to this feat, the Rangers have accomplished this while having 2008 wonder-boy Josh Hamilton miss 47 of those games due to injury. The pitching staff, which has a 4.34 ERA, more than a full run lower than 2008, has carried the team while an inconsistent lineup toiled to find its groove at the plate. With a fully healthy Josh Hamilton and continued competency from the pitching staff, they 2009 Texas Rangers have a chance to challenge the Angels in the second half. But what good is conjecture? Here are my first-half grades for your Texas Rangers. (Grades are not given to players with limited appearances)   Pitchers Kevin Millwood (A) – Millwood has finally earned the title of “Ace”. 130 innings and eight wins show he has embraced Nolan Ryan’s pitching philosophy ...