Rangers sign Ian Desmond to 1-year, $8 million deal

The Rangers and shortstop Ian Desmond agree to a one-year deal for $8 million dollars.

Former Nationals shortstop Ian Desmond has found a new home as a free agent, reportedly agreeing to terms with the Texas Rangers on a new contract. Per Jim Bowden, the Rangers’ plan is for Desmond to be their starting left fielder. To strike a deal with Desmond suggests the Rangers aren’t certain of that or that Hamilton can stay on the field long-term to produce any offense. Across Desmond’s career, the middle infielder has slashed.264/.312/.424 with 185 doubles, 21 triples, 110 home runs, 432 RBI and 122 stolen bases in 927 games played.

Desmond is heading to Texas and is expected to join the outfield.

– Desmond turned down a $107 million offer from the Nationals at one point and turned down a $15.8 million qualifying offer and will eventually land a fraction of that.

Josh Hamilton, who is injured, was slated to play left for the Rangers, but is not going to be available at the start of the 2016 campaign, though he could return by May according to reports. Last season, Desmond took 583 at-bats in 156 games and hit 19 home runs, 62 RBI and struggled with a. 233 batting average.