Rangers Aim for Success with New Additions and a Focus on Their Young Pitchers
In Surprise, Arizona, the Texas Rangers are preparing for a new season by reshaping their roster with a series of strategic moves aimed at enhancing their competitive edge. After displaying potential in recent years that warranted a World Series title, the Rangers made significant changes during the offseason, adding key players and revamping their bullpen.
Notable additions include Joc Pederson and Jake Burger, who have been brought on board to reinforce the team’s batting lineup. Moreover, the bullpen saw a complete makeover, welcoming six new relievers to the squad. The team made the wise decision to retain Nathan Eovaldi, who has been a dependable pitcher in the starting rotation, by signing him to a lucrative three-year deal.
However, no acquisition this offseason carries the weight of the Rangers’ ongoing anticipation surrounding star pitcher Jacob deGrom. A two-time Cy Young Award winner in 2018 and 2019, deGrom has faced challenges with injuries throughout his career, leading to concern among fans and the organization alike. Early in the 2023 season, deGrom underwent Tommy John surgery after only six starts, preventing him from contributing to the Rangers’ impressive championship run and sidelining him for most of 2024.
Although his return late last season did not garner wide attention due to the team’s standings, deGrom showcased signs of his former self, consistently hitting 98 mph with his fastball and using his acclaimed slider effectively. While it came too late to change the course of the 2024 season, his performance provided hope for the upcoming campaign.
Shortstop Corey Seager expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of having deGrom on the mound for an entire season, stating, "To get a full year, the first full year with him, will be a lot of fun. I know that’s got to feel good for him, just a sigh of relief."
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy has confirmed that deGrom will be integrated into the latter part of the rotation to facilitate a gradual buildup as the season begins. With a favorable April schedule, this strategy will provide deGrom with necessary rest and a chance to ease back into his role. As a result, Eovaldi is set to take the mound first on Opening Day, followed by pitchers Jon Gray, Tyler Mahle, and Cody Bradford.
An active deGrom could significantly change the dynamics of the Rangers’ rotation, which comprises several seasoned pitchers. Yet, teams need more than just five starters to navigate a 162-game season and the postseason that follows. The Rangers are keenly aware they may need to draw upon emerging talents such as Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker, two promising right-handers eager to make their mark.
Leiter and Rocker’s journey to the big leagues has been fraught with ups and downs, showcasing their resilience. Both pitchers, former teammates at Vanderbilt University, are excited to finally take the field together in the major leagues. Reflecting on their time at Vanderbilt, Leiter shared that they never expected to debut in the same year for the same team.
Earlier this spring, the duo kicked off their training, revisiting the memories of their collegiate success. They faced challenges—Rocker underwent Tommy John surgery, while Leiter struggled in Double-A ball, yet they remained determined to rise through the ranks together.
Arriving at the professional level was initially challenging for Leiter. He faced a rough introduction with a 6.30 ERA in Double-A when Rocker was selected by the Rangers. However, after a series of strong performances in the minors, Leiter was recalled to make his major league debut, though it did not go as planned. On the other hand, Rocker showcased strong potential in the minors and made his debut later that summer.
Both pitchers are now focused on maturing as professionals and adapting their skills to meet the demands of big league hitters. Rocker has emphasized how critical it is to win pitch counts, admitting that competing at the highest levels has compelled him to refine his approach.
As they look toward the 2025 season, the camaraderie and competitive spirit between Rocker and Leiter are evident. They have learned valuable lessons from their early pro experiences, striving to execute their game plans effectively while growing as athletes.
"The fact that it’s worked out this way has been pretty special," Leiter remarked. "It’s been awesome to have [Rocker] here, because I feel like we make each other better and it’s fun to watch him go about his business."
With the Texas Rangers making significant investments in player development and focusing on their young talent, the team hopes to regain its standing among Major League Baseball’s elite, making this season one full of potential and excitement.
