It makes all the sense in the world for Texas to go and sign Brad Hawpe, who was released by the Rockies earlier this week. The Rangers are among the teams interested in signing him and it makes all the sense in the world for the Rangers to sign him.
↵He's been riddled by injury the past two seasons but his numbers still range from average to very good. From 2007-2009 outside of Coors, he's posted a .278/.376/.486 line. His batting value (Park Adjusted Runs Above Average based on wOBA - thanks Fangraphs) for 2008 was 18.4 and in 2009 21.5. So far in 2010 it's not outstanding, only at .5. Still, without consistent playing time thanks to nagging injuries and a full Rockies outfield, it's easy to understand why Hawpe would be a bit down this year. Even still for the year, he's hitting .255/.343/.432. Great? No, but pretty much average. Colorado has also played him at first base this year when Todd Helton was on the disabled list - a place where Hawpe could play in Texas over Cantu or Moreland.
↵The Rangers wouldn't have to give up any players for Hawpe. He's a free agent. There's no risk involved. If they'd surrender Michael Main to pick up Bengie Molina, there's really no reason not to go sign Hawpe. Adding him to the Rangers lineup makes the Rangers lineup that much deeper - and that's really important come October.
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