🌟 Texas Responds to Semien Trade With Sudden Depth Boost
The Texas Rangers wasted absolutely no time reacting to the stunning Marcus Semien–Brandon Nimmo trade that shook the league. Just hours after the blockbuster dropped, Texas made another unexpected move — signing former Minnesota Twins infielder Jonah Bride to a minor league deal with an invitation to big-league camp.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Rangers wanted immediate infield security and veteran insurance, especially after losing their franchise second baseman. Bride, known for his versatility, can handle first, second, and third base, making him a convenient depth piece as the roster reshuffles. ✍️🔥
🧊 Bride’s Rocky 2025 Journey
Bride’s 2025 season was anything but smooth. After hitting .100 in 12 games, the Marlins designated him for assignment, sending him to the Twins for cash. Minnesota desperately needed coverage following Matt Wallner’s hamstring injury, but the move didn’t pay off the way they hoped.
During his time in Minnesota, Bride slashed .208/.275/.236 with no home runs. The Twins eventually DFA’d him again on July 1 and outrighted him to Triple-A St. Paul, where he finally bounced back with a solid .281/.423/.453 finish. 💪
⚾ From the A’s to the Marlins to… Texas?
Bride debuted in 2022 with the Oakland A’s, appearing in 98 games across two seasons. His best work came in Miami in 2024, where he surprisingly posted a career-best .276/.357/.461, smashing 11 homers in 71 games under — yes — Skip Schumaker, who now manages the Rangers.
👀 Coincidence? Probably not.
🤯 Rangers Fans Remember Him… As a Pitcher?!
Rangers fans might recall Bride for something totally different — taking the mound.
In 2025, he made four pitching appearances, including two in one series against the Rangers. From scoreless innings to games where he was knocked around, Bride’s emergency pitching outings became a quirky footnote to his season.
🎯 What Bride Means for Texas
Bride isn’t expected to crack the Opening Day roster, and he won’t replace Semien. However, with a major clubhouse leader now gone, the Rangers wanted a steady, experienced presence who can:
✔ mentor young infielders
✔ provide depth when injuries strike
✔ contribute at multiple positions
It’s a low-risk move — but one that could quietly matter. 🔥📝