New arrivals.

Got this 1980 Topps Jim Kern back in the mail today. I had sent it and a 1981 Topps card to him on January 13th and asked him to sign them. He obliged and I must say that I am pleased. Kern was easily one of the best relievers in Rangers' history. I am honored that he took the time to sign my cards.

Texas signed Omar Vizquel yesterday as a utility infielder. I have to wonder why they did this after having Michael Young move to third base. Vizquel has been a very good shortstop in the past. However, he has played only one MLB game at second and none at third during his career. Seems to me that Texas might have been better off trying to re-sign Ramon Vazquez since he had some experience as a true utility infielder.

After signing Vizquel, the Rangers then inked catcher Adam Melhuse to a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training. This move makes sense to me for several reasons. Melhuse can play several positions and is a switch hitter. He wasn't just tearing things up last season for Texas but he was doing ok for a backup catcher before he broke his hand. Following that he was released. It looks as though this signing is just an insurance move to give the organization some catching depth.