|
 "My intention is to lead him off... (and) put him in left, but he
also brings versatility, so you may see him in center, you might see
him in right. He gives us options," Texas manager Ron Washington
told reporters as Choo was officially introduced as a team member on
Friday.
The free agent signed a seven-year deal worth $130 million — the
second-highest contract offered to a free agent by the Rangers
behind Alex Rodriguez.
Choo batted .285 for the Cincinnati Reds last season and had a .423
on-base percentage, the fourth-highest in the majors.
He joins the Rangers on the heels of the team signing slugger Prince
Fielder from Detroit.
"We feel we've added two impact players in the heart of our
lineup... and at the same time held on to all our young players and
actually added to that group," said general manager Jon Daniels.
[to top of second column] |
Choo, 31, who is married with three children, said he chose
the Rangers for personal and professional reasons.
"Today is my dream come true," he said. "My next dream is
winning World Series ring.
"I looking for winning teams. I think about my family, how
comfortable staying in city. I think Texas Rangers is best fit
for me, very easy to pick."
Choo made his major league debut in 2005, for the Seattle
Mariners and later played for the Cleveland Indians before
spending last season in Cincinnati.
(Reporting by Andrew Both in Cary,
N.C.; editing by
Gene Cherry)
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