Suspended Texas Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz is expected to report to the team’s instructional league next week, an indication that the team may activate him for the playoffs, CBSSports.com reported Friday.
It is uncertain, however, if he fits into the Rangers’ long-term plans. The Rangers reportedly turned down a four-year, $56 million contract proposal from Cruz’s agents last winter.
Since then, Cruz switched from the Levinson brothers’ ACES agency to Adam Katz to represent him.
Cruz’s 50-game suspension for using performance-enhancing drugs and his age — 33 — are two factors the Rangers are considering as he will be a free agent at the end of the year. Cruz was batting .269 with 27 home runs and 76 RBI at the time of his suspension in early August.
Manager Ron Washington has said he would like Cruz on the postseason roster, should the Rangers get there. Texas (80-59) has a half-game lead in the American League West standings.