Lance Berkman is heading back to
Berkman made just 97 plate appearances last season as he battled a recurring knee issue that required two surgeries. He was leaning towards retirement by the end of the difficult 2012 season, but the promise on another lucrative contract was enough to entice him back into the free agent market. In 2011, he was fantastic, hitting .301/.412/.547 in 587 plate appearances for the World Series Champion Cardinals. A return to the American League could help the 36 year old slugger stay healthy as he can slip into the DH slot regularly.
The addition of Berkman helps replace the offense the Rangers have lost this off-season. Slugger Josh Hamilton left
Given his age and his knee issues, Berkman figures to spend most of his time as the designated hitter, but he give Texas a backup option at first as well should Mitch Moreland or Mike Olt falter or fall to injury.