Dodgers Rumors: Ruggiano, Texas Rangers Near Deal

Justin Ruggiano was a surprise for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2015, but found himself on the outside looking in this offseason. Wednesday afternoon, it looks as if he might’ve found a landing spot.

ICYMI: The Dodgers Were Right To Pass on Cueto

This, via Evan Grant of the SportsDay Dallas News:

According to two major league sources, the club has interest in Austin-reared, Texas A&M-educated Dallas-area resident Justin Ruggiano as a cost-effective right-handed bat who could spell Josh Hamilton in left field.  Ruggiano made $2.5 million in 2015.

Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said during the winter meetings, which ended on Thursday, that the club had made progress on a right-handed outfield bat. He said he hoped to have something resolved in 7-10 days. Daniels declined to comment on any specific outfielders.

That right-handed hitter appears to be Ruggiano.

The Dodgers have a surplus of outfielders and had planned to outright Ruggiano, which he refused, thus becoming a free agent.

Ruggiano, a Texas native will fit right in considering the short porches in Arlington. Best of luck, Justin!