Key Offseason Changes
The Rangers underwent significant roster changes in an effort to balance payroll while remaining competitive. The biggest move saw Marcus Semien traded to the Mets in exchange for Brandon Nimmo, who slides into right field and brings on-base skills through 2030. Texas is scaling payroll back from $216M to approximately $176M.
The rotation received a major boost with the acquisition of MacKenzie Gore from the Nationals in a five-for-one prospect trade. Gore joins Jacob deGrom, Nathan Eovaldi, and Jack Leiter in what projects as one of baseball's best rotations when healthy. Eovaldi is optimistic after recovering from a rotator cuff strain that ended his 2025 season in August.
The bullpen was rebuilt with several signings: Alexis Díaz (former All-Star closer with 75 career saves), Chris Martin ($4M), and Jakob Junis ($4M). Top prospect Sebastian Walcott (.444/.500/1.111 in spring training last year) received a non-roster invite and could push for playing time.
Projected Starting Lineup
| Order | Player | Position | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Evan Carter | CF | Young star, high ceiling |
| 2 | Corey Seager | SS | Perennial MVP candidate, 30+ HR |
| 3 | Brandon Nimmo | RF | Elite OBP, acquired from Mets |
| 4 | Josh Jung | 3B | Power bat, injury bounce-back |
| 5 | Wyatt Langford | LF | Former #1 prospect, developing |
| 6 | Jake Burger | 1B | Power bat, solid production |
| 7 | Danny Jansen | C | Veteran catcher, solid bat |
| 8 | Ezequiel Duran | 2B | Versatile infielder |
| 9 | Joc Pederson | DH | LH power, platoon DH |
The loss of Semien hurts, but Corey Seager remains one of baseball's elite offensive shortstops with 30+ HR potential. Evan Carter brings speed and upside at the top, while Nimmo's elite on-base skills slot him perfectly into the three-hole. Josh Jung needs to stay healthy after an injury-plagued 2025 to unlock his 25+ HR potential. Wyatt Langford continues developing after his rookie year, and Jake Burger provides reliable power at first base.
Projected Starting Rotation
| Slot | Pitcher | Throws | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP1 | Jacob deGrom | R | Former Cy Young, health key |
| SP2 | Nathan Eovaldi | R | Rotator cuff recovery, optimistic |
| SP3 | MacKenzie Gore | L | All-Star southpaw, acquired from WAS |
| SP4 | Jack Leiter | R | Top prospect, breakthrough season |
| SP5 | Jacob Latz | L | Competing with Kumar Rocker |
If healthy, this is one of baseball's most talented rotations. Jacob deGrom at full strength is a perennial Cy Young candidate, while Nathan Eovaldi brings playoff-tested experience after recovering from his rotator cuff strain. MacKenzie Gore gives Texas a legitimate All-Star lefty to pair with their right-handed depth. Jack Leiter's development has been promising, and Kumar Rocker could push for the fifth spot if he shows improvement in spring training.
Bullpen & Closer Situation
Closer: Alexis Díaz was signed with closer experience and 75 career saves as a former All-Star in Cincinnati. Chris Martin could also factor into save situations based on his experience. This appears to be a committee situation to monitor in spring training.
Setup: Chris Martin returns on a $4M deal after a strong first half in 2025 before injuries derailed him. Jakob Junis ($4M) provides multi-inning depth and setup value. Tyler Alexander can work multiple frames when needed.
Development: Cole Winn, Jose Corniell, and Luis Curvelo bring high-upside arms to the mix. Josh Sborz returns on a minor league deal after missing 2025 due to shoulder surgery. The bullpen has significant upside but lacks proven depth.