Texas Rangers sign Mike Napoli
Mike Napoli #26 of the Cleveland Indians breaks his bat during the first inning against the Chicago Cubs in Game Seven of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field on November 2, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio.
(Nov. 1, 2016 - Source: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images North America)
1B Mike Napoli returns to Texas for his third stint with the Rangers. The 35-year old slugger signed a one-year contract for $8.5 million with an $11 million club option for 2018.
Mike Napoli was batting .239 last season and had 92 runs, 34 HR and 101 RBI for the Cleveland Indians, who went on to lose to the Chicago Cubs in the World Series. He appeared in 150 games as first baseman and designated hitter.
After losing Carlos Beltran, Ian Desmond and Mitch Moreland, Mike Napoli became Texas’ primary target when Edwin Encarnacion signed with the Cleveland Indians. He will provide power in the middle of the batting order.
Mike Napoli was an All-Star in 2012 and won the World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2013. He advanced to the postseason in eight of his 11 MLB seasons and brings experience and leadership to the clubhouse.
The veteran has 637 runs, 238 HR and 678 RBI in his career while batting .252. RF Shin-Soo Choo will likely see more playing time at designated hitter in 2017.
