If the Rangers are to adapt and survive in the wilds of the AL playoff race, they must adjust and evolve defensively.
Thus: The club signed infielder Darwin Barney, a former Gold Glove middle infielder, to a minor league contract Monday. He will receive an invitation to major league spring training, becoming the 64th player in camp competing for one of 25 opening day roster spots. Only the strongest will survive.
Barney, 32, has played primarily second base in the majors, but also has 59 starts at third and 39 at short, making him a contender for a utility infielder spot.