Discover Did Ian Kinsler Ever Play Shortstop?

Ian Kinsler started his professional baseball career as a shortstop for the Spokane Indians in 2002. He hit .277/.352/.410, which is a great performance for a young player in the minor leagues. In 2004, Kinsler had a breakout year and was named the Texas Rangers’ Minor League Player of the Year.

Kinsler’s success as a shortstop in the minors made him a highly-regarded prospect. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his major league debut with the Rangers in 2006.

While Kinsler was a talented shortstop and played the position throughout the minor leagues, his future with the Rangers was uncertain. The team already had a star shortstop in Michael Young who was entering the prime of his career. As a result, the Rangers moved Kinsler to second base in 2007, where he became a two-time All-Star and a Gold Glove winner.

This move proved beneficial for both the Rangers and Kinsler. Kinsler established himself as one of the best second basemen in the league, and the Rangers had a solid, reliable defensive duo up the middle. He’s known for his powerful hitting and impressive fielding skills. He’s a well-respected player who has been a valuable asset to the teams he’s played for. He was a key part of the Rangers’ successful run to the World Series in 2011. While he didn’t play shortstop in the majors, his early days in the minors at shortstop were a key factor in developing his skills as a versatile player.