Bubba Thompson Earning More Texas Rangers Playing Time?

Texas Rangers outfielder Bubba Thompson brings the added dimension of speed to the offense.

Bubba Thompson’s first start of the season for the Texas Rangers could lead to more playing time down the road.

Hey, when you reach base three times and rip a double, triple and two RBI out of the No. 9 position, more starts are likely to follow.

The Rangers (5-4) open a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals on Monday night at 7:05 p.m. at Globe Life Field.

Thompson’s offense was a bonus in an 8-2 win over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday. Normally, Thompson is counted on for his defense and speed. But that speed is only extra special if he’s getting on base.

Thompson slashed .265/.302/.312 in 55 games in the Major Leagues in 2022. He also stole 49 bases in 80 games with Triple-A Round Rock and 18 more after making his MLB debut on Aug. 4.

When Thompson makes contact, he’s got a great chance to reach base.

“That’s game-changing speed he has,” manager Bruce Bochy said. “You hear the old adage ‘Put the ball in play and good things happen?' [Saturday], they did that and you saw what happened, we had a tough time.

“So in that situation, it’s just like ‘All right Bubba, put it in play.’ … It’s elite, his speed. There are very few guys that have that kind of speed, but that’s what Bubba has.”

It’s unclear how many times that Bochy will pencil Thompson’s name into the starting lineup.

But this much is clear: if Thompson provides this type of offense, he’ll definitely be playing more often.

“I’ve been mentally and physically getting information and getting my swings in,” Thompson told reporters. “I believe I can play up here. And then, when I get a shot, I want to do the little things to help my team win. That's it.

“I could be sitting somewhere else, so it's a blessing to be up here with these guys and playing behind some of the best in the world. It feels good. Like I said, these are the best guys in the world, so it feels good. Every time I step on that field, I try to do something any way I can.”

Thompson’s production helped fuel an eight-run, 10-hit attack.

He could play the entire next series or be utilized off the bench depending on matchups. Thompson understands this dilemma. He has no idea if he'll be playing.

But it’s hard to ignore what he provided Sunday.

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