After signing a seven-year $175 million deal before the 2022 season, the Texas Rangers’ MLBbro Marcus Semien was expected to do big things. The team, focused on returning to the American League playoffs, signed Semien to play a vital role in these aspirations. After the Rangers finished 68-94, Semien and the club regrouped and focused their efforts towards competing in 2023. The front office continued to spend money and chase big name free agents, most notably dominant but injury-prone pitcher Jacob deGrom. 

 

Marcus Semien| With High Praise Comes Big Bags & Higher Expectations

 

Texas Rangers In First Place: Seeking First MLB Playoffs Since 2016

 

The club has gotten off to a 12-6 start and is first in the American League West Division. Semiens’ return to dominance has spearheaded the strong start. The MLBbro came out the gate much faster than his first season in Arlington, batting .293 with four home runs and 18 runs batted in so far in the young season. His hot start is much more impressive considering his totals last year when he only tallied 13 hits total with zero home runs and six runs batted in from March to April. 

 

In An Era Where Everybody Is Taking Rests, Marcus Semien Is MLBs Iron Man | His Best Ability Is Availability

 

Semien, who was MLBbro’s inaugural Player of the Year, needs a bounce-back season. His numbers were down a bit across the board in 2022, but he still managed to produce his first 20-20 season. The infielder has been one of the most durable players in the Major Leagues, averaging 161 games played over the last four full MLB seasons. If he can once produce numbers closer to record-breaking his 2021 output (45 home runs, 102 RBI), the Rangers could remain in contention for a playoff appearance. 

 

Marcus Semien Wins Inaugural MLBbro.com Player Of The Year Award

 

Semien Building Legacy As All-Time Great Second Baseman 

Not many second baseman can provide the kind of power and speed combination that the electric MLBbro can. If Semien continues at his current pace, he could be returning to the All-Star game and likely chasing another Silver Slugger Award. 

 

These are the types of accolades the Rangers expected him to be chasing since cashing Semien out after the 2021 season. It may have taken him a year to get back to elite form, but if the Rangers get to experience post season baseball for the first time since 2016, he will be worth every penny.