He’s called everything from Nolan Ryan’s 5000th career strikeout, to the World Series. He joined the Rangers broadcast booth back in 1979 and today, Eric Nadel lends his insights to us exclusively at The Crawfish Boxes.
Q: Let’s begin with Jacob Latz. It’s just an incredible story considering where he was back in April. What have you seen from him?
A: Jacob Latz has been a life saver. He was beaten out in spring training for the fifth starter job, moved to the bullpen, and was expected to be a multiple
inning setup man for the closer Robert Garcia.
Well, Garcia was ineffective, then got hurt. The same happened to Chris Martin, who got the next shot at closing. Jakob Junis had the next shot and got a few saves, but when he was unavailable Latz got the call and Latz made the most of the opportunity. Having 9 saves of more than 3 outs just half way through the season is almost unprecedented.
Q: We in Houston have dealt with a myriad of injuries. The Rangers have had some misfortunes as well. What is going on with Corey Seager?
A: Corey Seager has had a miserable year and has contributed very little to the Rangers’ offense. That being said, the Rangers need the real Corey Seager if they are going to stay in contention.
Zeke Duran has done a great job filling in for Seager but the Rangers really need both of them to be healthy and playing up to their full potential.
Q: What do you see from this division the rest of the way?
A: Honestly, I see Seattle pulling away and winning the division quite easily. But if the Rangers can fortify their bullpen at the trading deadline and get Langford and Seager back at 100 percent, they should be able to compete for a wild card spot.
Q: For Astros fans not following the Rangers on a daily basis, tell us who’s been your MVP this season so far?
A: Zeke Duran has been the Rangers most valuable position player and Jacob Latz has been the most valuable pitcher. Neither one of them would have been the guy you expected to be this good going into the season.
