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One of the big stories for the Rangers in August is how the bullpen became a strength, and at Fangraphs, Jeff Sullivan takes a look at the bullpen and how the Rangers are getting big time results from a collection of guys a lot of fans have never heard of.
I've mentioned this before, but when you look at the Ranger bullpen, its fascinating how under-the-radar these guys are. Consider:
Shawn Tolleson was a waiver claim from the Dodgers in November, 2013.
Sam Dyson was acquired from the Marlins for a a couple of fringe prospects, and the Marlins had claimed Dyson on waivers in the first place from Toronto in January, 2013.
Jake Diekman was a throw-in in the Cole Hamels trade.
Sam Freeman was acquired this spring for cash considerations, and was waived and outrighted by the Rangers earlier this year.
Keone Kela was a 12th round draft choice in 2012.
Andrew Faulkner was a 14th round draft choice in 2011.
Anthony Bass was an NRI this offseason.
Bass is the highest paid of the group this season, at $725,000.
Bullpens are wacky things, man.