Spring Surprise Still Making Case for Rangers Roster Spot

Outfielder Clint Frazier started spring training on a high note. In his first six games, Frazier hit .316 with an OPS of .876. Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy gave Frazier an abundance of at-bats (second most in the first week next to Ezequiel Duran). After the first week of camp, Frazier talked about his success and whether he liked where he was.

"You can't predict what's going to happen, but you can be satisfied of what's happened so far, and I'm content [and] happy," Frazier said. "I'm still trying to do a lot more and accomplish a lot more in this short amount of time just to show the guys what I've got is still in there and capable of coming out."

In the past week, Frazier has gone slightly cold at the plate. Since March 6, Frazier is 1-for-11 with five strikeouts in three starts. Despite the struggles on the stat sheet, Frazier said spring training is about making solid contact regardless of the result.

"Nowadays, that seems to be what they want you to do is hit the ball hard," Frazier said." There's only one of me and nine of them to catch it, so the odds are not in your favor even though there's a ton of grass and dirt out there that seems to make it a lot easier than it is."

The key for Frazier is to create an impulsive mindset integrating the adjustments so that his concentration focuses entirely on the pitcher and the ball, not what he's doing in the batters' box.

Frazier has easily integrated himself into the Rangers clubhouse, a group that he says has one of the better atmospheres he's been a part of and spoke highly of.

"Winning is on the forefront on everyone's mind," Frazier said. "With winning comes things that people need to do right and at the right time to accomplish the right things. I think everyone is able to come here and have a work-first environment but have fun while you're working."

Rangers manager Bruce Bochy talked about Frazier on Sunday and discussed his upbeat attitude and humbleness.

"He's loose, free-spirited, has a lot of fun playing, and a lot of fun competing," Bochy said. "It looks like he's worked hard to get a chance to get back to the Major Leagues. He's got a sense of humor and having fun with this, but he's appreciative with his time with us."

Frazier is in competition for left field between Duran, Robbie Grossman, Josh Smith, Brad Miller, and Travis Jankowski. As for what he needs to do during these final two weeks in spring, Frazier said (with a smirk) it's about solid contact.

"Hit the ball hard and make Bruce and the rest of those guys wonder what's to come every time I come to the plate."

Since Frazier is not on the 40-man roster, the Rangers would need to coordinate a move. However, if he performs as he did early in spring training, the team may have no choice.