9. Alex “Chi Chi” Gonzalez – RHP – Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers appear to be favorites of the dreaded ‘injury bug.’ While this cripples expectations for the upcoming season, it does open the door for some of the team’s up-and-coming stars. Enter former Oral Roberts pitcher Alex “Chi Chi” Gonzalez.
Gonzalez had been creeping up the prospect list before Yu Darvish was diagnosed with an elbow injury, posting a 2.70 ERA with a 7.85 K/9 in 15 Double-A games last season. Now, competing for a spot in the Opening Day rotation, Gonzalez bolstered his case with three shutout innings of two-hit ball in his most recent start. If he doesn’t win the job outright, expect a call at the first sign of trouble.
