Rangers Release Santiago Espinal

The Rangers released infielder Santiago Espinal from a minor league contract, per Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. It’s a short stay in the Texas organization after the veteran utilityman signed there early in the month.

Espinal, 31, opened the season with the Dodgers but didn’t get much playing time. He logged 60 plate appearances in 36 games and went 15-for-56 with three doubles and a homer, resulting in a .268/.276/.375 line overall. He was designated for assignment in June and elected free agency after clearing waivers. With the Rangers’ top affiliate, Espinal went 11-for-42 with a pair of doubles.

It’s been a few years, but Espinal had a nice run with the Jays in 2021-22 when he hit .282/.340/.382 with quality defense at multiple spots. He’s since slashed only .247/.296/.328 in 1033 big league plate appearances. Espinal has experience all over the infield but has primarily played second and third base. He’s a lifetime .285/.332/.406 hitter against lefties. A club looking for some right-handed bench/infield depth to stash in the upper minors will probably give him a look before long.