Target: Mike Napoli, 1B/DH
2013 stats: .259 batting average, .360 on-base percentage, .842 OPS, 92 RBIs, 38 doubles, 23 home runs
The Texas Rangers had a chance to bring Mike Napoli back in 2013 and passed on the opportunity to make him a $13.3 million qualifying offer. The Boston Red Sox offered him big money and Texas chose to let him walk, wisely. But then, a hip problem emerged on Napoli's physical exam and the deal was pulled as Boston opted to give him a one-year deal instead on the cheap. If only the Rangers could've done that because they sure could've used Napoli's bat this season.
We all know now that Napoli of 2011 was a fluke. He's never going to hit .320 with an OPS of over 1.000 again, but he's still a dangerous bat to stick in your lineup, and the Rangers need all of those they can get this offseason.
Napoli isn't going to catch anymore, but he's done a fine job at first base this year after moving exclusively from catcher due to the hip ailment. The Rangers are looking to upgrade at first base and designated hitter, and Napoli could plug either or both of those holes, plus he gives them another bat from the right side in a left-handed lineup.
The chances of a reunion here probably aren't great, but you can bet Napoli is on the Rangers' radar in some form or fashion, and he probably won't be back in Boston again. Time will tell.
