The Texas Rangers look to take the series against Minnesota today in the series finale, and Jeff Banister is giving Adrian Beltre a half-day off, slotting him in the DH role, with Joey Gallo at 3B and Shin-Soo Choo in RF.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see the frequency of Beltre at DH increase in 2018...I think the Rangers still view Joey Gallo as their possible 3B of the future, and realize that Beltre won’t be playing forever. Giving Gallo 40 or so starts at 3B in 2018, with Beltre getting 40 or starts at DH, would seem to help keep Beltre fresh and rested while also keeping Gallo getting time at 3B, so he can move there permanently once Beltre hangs it up. In the meantime, Gallo can get his remaining starts either in a corner outfield spot or at first base.
The lineup today:
Choo — RF
Elvis — SS
Mazara — LF
Beltre — DH
Odor — 2B
Napoli -- 1B
Gallo — 3B
Gomez -- CF
Chirinos — C
Nick Martinez makes the start for the Rangers, going up against Jose Berrios for the Twins.