Remember when Adrian Sampson was a part of the Rangers rotation? It was back when Jon Daniels was the general manager and talent evaluation didn’t exist.

Back in 2019, Sampson started fifteen games for the Rangers. He went 3-7 with a 6.41 ERA. Under Daniels, that was considered an ace. 

He didn’t surface again in the major leagues until 2021 with the Cubs, where he was actually an effective pitcher, starting five games and pitching in a total of ten appearance. 

But he was banished to the minor leagues in 2023. Now, he’s back with the Rangers trying to make their threadbare rotation. Yesterday, he lived up to his Jon Daniels draftee status by giving up six earned runs in 3.2 innings, to lower his spring ERA to 9.35.

Adrian Sampson did not do himself any favors to be considered for the Rangers roster in 2024. Spring stats only matter when you drop the meat in the dirt time after time after time.

Texas is having auditions for their starting rotation. So far, it’s been bleak.

But, bleak for the number five starter. Which is nothing like it used to be, when a guy like Adrian Sampson, and his 9.00 ERA, would be the Rangers ace.

We will continue to pound on Rangers pitching until Chris Young finds another starter or two to step up. 

One thing is sure, though. It’s not Adrian Sampson.

*****

TODAY’S GAMES:

Oakland vs Texas, 3:05