Osuna's Rise: Texas Rangers' New On-Base Threat

Alejandro Osuna has emerged as a player the Texas Rangers should invest in further, following his notable progress in 2026. Although he did not begin the season with the major league club, Osuna finished 2026 with significantly improved statistics.

His performance metrics from last season showcase underlying numbers that point to his value. Osuna's discipline was evident in his reduced whiff and strikeout rates, which would have ranked among baseball's best if he had sufficient plate appearances. This plate discipline also translated to a strong performance against left-handed pitching.

As the Rangers prioritize on-base percentage, Osuna's ability to reach base against both left-handed and right-handed pitchers aligns with their strategy. His on-base percentage was second only to Josh Jung among qualified hitters on the team last year. This development presents a lineup decision for Texas, with Osuna capable of playing all outfield positions.

The Rangers are now evaluating where Osuna best fits, considering established outfielders Wyatt Langford and Brandon Nimmo. A potential scenario involves Osuna competing with Evan Carter for center field, or adapting to a corner outfield role. Regardless of the specific alignment, Osuna's contributions are deemed essential for the Rangers' future success in 2027.