Texas Rangers Roster News, Rumors: Drew Stubbs Granted Release, Signs With Braves
The Texas Rangers gave in to the request of veteran Drew Stubbs by releasing him, after the outfielder opted to get out of his minor league contract in order to search for a team who will give him the opportunity to play in the major league this season. He played for the Rangers last year, eventually earning a spot in spring training.
Rangers executive VP John Blake, via CBS Sports, reported the move, which was kind of expected because Stubbs made it known that he wanted to look for better opportunities elsewhere since he wasn't considered by the Rangers in the Opening Day roster. To be fair on his part, he had decent numbers in spring training posting a .324/.381/.541 slash line.
The same report also mentioned that Stubbs was supposedly a surefire addition to the 25-man roster for Texas, so it was a little bit of a surprise when the team instead decided to add Justin Ruggiano and Ryan Rua.
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But in also a rather surprising move, Stubbs eventually decided to join the Atlanta Braves on a minor league deal, which in some way is a definite gamble considering that he only has a few days to be able to make the roster.
Stubbs joined the Braves on Wednesday and is slated to debut for the club against the Baltimore Orioles. His addition to the team is a clear sign that the Braves aren't particularly sure about their backfield depth, more specifically the backup. While Emilio Bonifacio and Michael Bourn were supposed to be competing for another spot in the Opening Day roster, the arrival of Stubbs could mean that both are likely going to be cut. With only a few days left before the start of the season, it should be interesting to see who's going to be in and who's out for the Braves.
