It’s been difficult for the Rangers to find consistent offensive production from left field this season, so they’ll try something a little crazy on Sunday afternoon in Arlington.
Mike Napoli, a 33-year-old catcher turned first baseman, is getting his first-ever start in the outfield as the Rangers wrap up a three-game weekend series with the A’s. He’ll start in left and bat fifth versus A’s left-hander Felix Doubront.
This is not only Napoli’s first start in the outfield as a major leaguer — it’s his first start in the outfield at any level of professional ball.
The veteran is batting .279/.354/.512 with three home runs in 20 games since returning to Texas.