Before the MLB lockout ended, Texas Rangers shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa was considered an intriguing trade chip. Now that the lockout has come to an end, Kiner-Falefa is officially on the move.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan has reported that Kiner-Falefa is being traded to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for catcher Mitch Garver. Right-handed pitcher Ronny Henriquez might be heading to Minnesota in the deal as well.
Kiner-Falefa, 26, finished the 2021 season with a .271 batting average, eight home runs and 53 RBI. Not only is he a consistent hitter, but he’s a Gold Glove winner.
The writing was on the wall for Kiner-Falefa once the Rangers signed Corey Seager and Marcus Semien in free agency.
Now, Kiner-Falefa will have the chance to remain an everyday starter in Minnesota.
Catcher Mitch Garver is headed to the Rangers in the deal for Isiah Kiner-Falefa, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 12, 2022
As for the Rangers, this is a savvy move because they used their depth at shortstop to acquire a quality catcher in return.
Garver had a .256 batting average with 13 home runs and 34 RBI last season. If he can replicate that production this season, he’ll be a fine addition to Texas’ lineup.
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