Texas Rangers Sign Former Promising First Baseman

Not returning to Japan after all.

The Texas Rangers have signed first baseman Yoshi Tsutsugo to a minor league contract with an invite to spring training.

The Texas Rangers have signed 1B/OF Yoshi Tsutsugo to a minor league contract with an invitation to Major League Spring Training camp. pic.twitter.com/xEoZS7QJdy

— Complete MLB (@CompleteMLB) January 16, 2023

Tsutsugo's arrival in the MLB was pretty highly anticipated a couple of years ago. Unfortunately, he's been unable to live up to the hype, slashing an ugly .197/.291/.339 with just 18 home runs, 75 RBIs and 65 runs scored across 182 games. 

Since arriving in 2020, the thirty-one-year-old has spent time with the Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Regardless, it's a decent low-risk signing for the Rangers, as they add a left-handed bat and the potential for some quality depth. There's a chance he makes the team's Opening Day roster in a reserve role.
Photo Credit: Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports