Texas Rangers Seating Chart

The Texas Rangers come into the 2009 season hoping to improve from a third place finish in 2008 but without much hope to contend for a playoff spot.

The Rangers are led by MVP Josh Hamilton, who went from a disappointing prospect in Cincinnati with drug issues to one of baseball's brightest stars and the best comeback story in sports.

He set a record for most home runs in one round of the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game last year and was considered a legitimate threat to win the elusive Triple Crown.

The Rangers signed outfielder Andruw Jones for almost nothing after he was cut by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Wow, how far has Jones fallen in such a short period of time?

Still, it's probably a smart signing on the part of the Rangers. If Jones performs poorly, there is no loss. If he performs well, it's a great pickup that really didn't cost them a dime.

The Jones signing proved to be important after outfielder Milton Bradley left to sign a three-year deal with the Chicago Cubs. Bradley was one of the most productive players in the league last year.

However, the outfielder was often on the disabled list or serving as the designated hitter because of various injuries. He also wasn't the best guy to have in the clubhouse, so it's not a total loss.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia figures to settle into the catcher's position after being temporarily moved over to first base. He has a solid bat, but I do think it fits in better behind the plate. The Rangers and the 23-year old are hoping for big things this year.

As is usually the case with the Rangers, the starting rotation is in shreds. Kevin Millwood is back to anchor the staff, but he isn't getting any younger. The Rangers are hopeful that the continued development of Brandon McCarthy will help solidify the rotation.

C.J. Wilson comes into the season with the closer's role nailed down after a successful 2008 campaign. Frank Francisco and Joaquin Benoit add to what could be one of the best bullpens in the American League.

The Rangers certainly don't have the talent to compete for the Los Angeles Angels or Oakland Athletics, but they should be able to avoid the cellar thanks to the hapless and now rebuilding Seattle Mariners.