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While the Texas Rangers are currently under .500, they are still in the thick of things in the division. They are just two games behind the Seattle Mariners, who hold first place in the American League West.
With the team looking to close the gap, the front office is starting to prepare for the MLB Draft later this summer, where the Rangers have been given the No. 16 pick.
There's a good crop of talent this year, but the front office will have to have multiple guys in mind since they are drafting mid-way into the first round.
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Mock draft pairs the Rangers with one of the most productive hitters in college
Last year, the Rangers had the No. 12 pick, and with it they took prep shortstop Gavin Fien. But before that, they've heavily relied on college talent.
Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes they will go back to the well and select University of Texas outfielder Aiden Robbins in the first round.
"Robbins transformed his game this spring, going from a high-contact guy at Seton Hall where he hit .422/.537/.652 as a sophomore, to one of the most productive power hitters in the country. His strikeout rate climbed from 12.5 to 22.9 percent, but the trade-off was well worth it, as he still hit .333/.426/.696 while slugging 24 home runs after hitting just 12 total as a freshman and sophomore."
Robbins has completely turned his game around since transferring to Texas. He has become a power hitter, one of the best in the college ranks this past season. However, his lack of speed in the outfield is likely going to move him to left or right field after he gets drafted.
He could be an excellent pick for the Rangers, and one that would keep hometown talent in the state.
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