Sweet-Lou swings into Arlington

Arlington, TX -

Lou Whitaker arrived here today in time to take infield practice with the team who has placed its hopes squarely on his narrow shoulders. Whitaker should not only anchor the key-stone, but will be expected provide the offensive spark without which the Rangers offense has failed to truly ignite.

Despite a seemingly formidable middle of the order and a truly unique talent behind the plate, the Rangers offense has so far refused to fire. While Sierra and I.Rodriguez have hit over .300, and combined with Juan Gonzalez and Sammy Sosa for 62 HR already this season, the infield has been nothing but a drag on an offense that currently ranks 12th in batting average. Cornermen Stanley and Palmer have provided potent, if inconsistent power, but Hernandez, Frye, Frias, and Gil have seemingly been absent ( 83/405 combined). Rangers batters rank second in slugging and lead the league in home runs.