Rangers Demote 2018 Standout Ronald Guzman in Surprising Move
By Scott Rogust
The Texas Rangers have opted to send a young hitter down to the minors.
On Tuesday, the Rangers sent first baseman Ronald Guzman to Triple-A Nashville, in order to make room for pitcher Pedro Payano.
Rangers demotion of Ronald Guzman is another example that young hitters - a key focus for this season - have largely not progressed. Obviously, Joey Gallo is an exception. https://t.co/dgR4Ru4dqR
— Evan Grant (@Evan_P_Grant) July 23, 2019
The transaction is interesting, as one week ago, manager Chris Woodward stated that Guzman is his everyday first baseman for the foreseeable future. Obviously, a lot changed in the span of a week.
There is reason for Guzman's demotion, as he's been in a lengthy slump. In 68 games this season, Guzman posted a .193 batting average, a .678 OPS, along with eight home runs and 29 RBI.
Rangers have recalled RHP Pedro Payano from Nashville. He is expected to pitch tonight following the opener Brett Martin. To make room on active roster 1B Ronald Guzman has been optioned to Nashville. RHP Luke Farrell has been sent on rehab assignment to the AZL Rangers.
— John Blake (@RangerBlake) July 23, 2019
In the past 15 games with the Rangers, Guzman is batting a dreadful .081 average, while posting a .190 on-base percentage.
This may not be the last time fans see Guzman in a Rangers uniform this season. With Texas falling further and further back in the AL Wild Card standings, the team may opt to sell at the trade deadline. If that's the case, expect Ronald Guzman to return shortly after July 31.