General Manager Chris Young of the Texas Rangers
Texas Rangers Poised for Big 2025 Season After Offseason Moves
The Texas Rangers enter the 2025 MLB season with one of the deepest and most talented rosters in baseball. After a 2024 campaign marred by injuries and inconsistency, they are determined to reassert themselves as a powerhouse in the American League. With a few breaks going their way, they could be one of the toughest teams to beat this year.
Aggressive Roster Upgrades
President of baseball operations and general manager Chris Young took an aggressive approach this offseason, identifying key needs and making significant additions. One of the biggest priorities was revamping the bullpen after Kirby Yates, David Robertson, Jose Leclerc, and Andrew Chafin hit free agency. While the Rangers lack a clear-cut closer, they are confident in their newly assembled relief corps, opting for short-term veteran deals while waiting for reinforcements from the minor league system.
However, the most impactful moves came on the offensive side of the ball. According to former MLB executive Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Rangers’ most important acquisition was bolstering their lineup with power.
Adding Power to the Lineup
The acquisitions of Jake Burger and Joc Pederson add serious thump to an already potent lineup. Burger, who was acquired in a trade with the Miami Marlins, takes over at first base following the departure of Nathaniel Lowe to the Washington Nationals. While Lowe’s on-base skills and defensive ability will be missed, Burger’s raw power more than compensates. He has already launched 72 career home runs, boasting an elite 5.4% home run rate—well above the league average of 3.1%.
Pederson, one of the premier platoon hitters in baseball, brings a significant boost against right-handed pitching. In 2024, he posted an impressive .281/.392/.531 slash line against righties with 22 home runs, 16 doubles, and 60 RBIs over 407 plate appearances. His presence in the lineup should provide better protection for the Rangers’ key sluggers.
No Weak Spots in the Lineup
With the additions of Burger and Pederson, Texas boasts a lineup with no clear weak spots. Returning stars Marcus Semien, Corey Seager, Adolis García, Wyatt Langford, and Josh Jung form a formidable core that should give opposing pitchers nightmares throughout the season.
If the Rangers can stay healthy and their key acquisitions perform as expected, they have all the pieces necessary to be a legitimate World Series contender. With a combination of veteran leadership, young talent, and a deep lineup, 2025 could be a special year in Arlington.
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