Rangers Rally

Catcher - Kyle Higashioka / Danny Jansen  With Jonah Heim's departure to Atlanta, catching duties are expected to be split between Kyle Higashioka and free agent acquisition Danny Jansen. Higashioka has hit double digit home runs in each of the past five seasons and owns a 102 OPS+ since the start of 2024, while Jansen has hit 10 or more homers in four of the past five years and owns a career OBP 91 points higher than his batting average. If the Rangers reach the playoffs, both catchers have successful postseason experience - Higashioka in the form of four homers and a career .511 slugging percentage, and Jansen with a 1.308 OPS.  First Base - Jake Burger  While Burger struggled with injuries and a slump that resulted in his temporary demotion, he still finished with 16 homers and hopes to return to his 2023-24 ways when he clubbed 63 homers. Heading into his age-30 season and having already adjusted to Globe Life's unique dimensions, there is every reason to believe that...

On Thursday, veteran outfielder / DH Andrew McCutchen signed a one-year contract with the Rangers reportedly worth $1.5 million, if he makes the 40-man roster. While he is no longer the same player who had four straight top-five MVP finishes in the 2010's, he is still a capable player and one who could provide much value to the club.  McCutchen leads active players with 2,262 career games, slashing .271 / .365 / .457 with 332 homers and capturing an MVP in 2013. With 17 years of experience and plenty of big league success, he could greatly benefit the team from a mentor role, which is especially valuable after the departure of former hitting coach Bret Boone. Additionally, he offers a league-average righthanded bat to a predominantly lefthanded lineup, potentially providing a platoon option for Joc Pederson or Evan Carter against lefthanded pitchers. McCutchen slugged 13 home runs in 2025 and maintained very strong walk and chase rates.  Overall, this signing is a good one for...