Former Detroit Tigers infielder Ian Kinsler set to join Rangers front office

Former Detroit Tigers infielder Ian Kinsler lands in Rangers' front office.

The Detroit Tigers have been six years removed from seeing Ian Kinsler suit up with the organization, but he's an old friend who's heading back to his roots. After some time out of the game, Ian Kinsler was hired by the Texas Rangers to join the front office as a Special Assistant to the General Manager.

Kinsler got his start in Texas before being traded to Detroit in the deal that off-loaded Prince Fielder from the Detroit Tigers in what was a huge move. He spent the next four seasons in Detroit after being acquired by Detroit in 2014.

He was the team's second baseman and a fixture near the top of the lineup. Even though things had been trending downward upon Kinsler's arrival, he was one of the more exciting players to watch. He was a colorful player who was not afraid to tell you how he felt.

He may not be some lifelong Tiger or even someone who was part of a championship run, but Tigers fans have to remember him fondly. Kinsler's getting back into the game and joining the Rangers' front office.

The Rangers' front office is spearheaded by Chris Young, a former MLB pitcher running the show in Arlington. After a 14-year career in the big leagues, Kinsler finding his way back into the big leagues in the front office is not surprising.

After all, Kinsler is slated to manage Team Israel during the World Baseball Classic, which begins when the calendar flips over to March. Another way Kinsler is staying connected to the game. He capped off his career in 2019 and is getting involved once again.

Kinsler was a four-time all-star and a World Series champion. He was known for his smoothness defensively, with a great glove and the ability to make tough plays. He earned two Gold Gloves during his career and brought a quality addition to the lineup for whatever team he was a part of.

While he may not be joining the Tigers front office, who are still on the hunt for a General Manager to preside under Scott Harris, best of luck to Kinsler in his new spot, he'll be looking to help the Rangers get things going in the right direction.

At least, with the Rangers, their off-season included bringing in superstar pitcher Jacob deGrom, arguably the best arm in baseball. That being said, it's time to get back to focusing on Tigers Spring Training and whether Matt Boyd or Spencer Turnbull will be able to be a worthy no.2 for the organization behind "ace" Eduardo Rodríguez. What a time to be a Tigers fan.