Power Pros Forum

Exclusive: Watts Tells All Entering Ninth Year

In a rare look into the personal life of one of baseball’s top young minds, Oliver Watts has sat down for an exclusive interview with MLB.com’s Zachary Morton, for release on February 26th, the first date of Spring Training games this year.

Entering their ninth year in an unusual dual-position as both general manager and field manager of Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers, Watts is a three-time Manager of the Year and keeps their 2022 World Series ring safely guarded in a box on their desk, just to the left of their nameplate.

Despite the numerous accomplishments under Watts’ belt, they remain as shy as ever, not wanting to take any attention away from their team’s play on the field or their players’ contributions off of the diamond.

“I believe our players have done an amazing job of giving back to this community,” Watts says, “and while I have certainly helped, none of this would have been possible without their hard work and dedication.”

It may seem like a canned answer, but Watts is serious. During their time with the Rangers, the team has won four division titles, made the playoffs five times, won 100 or more games three times, and of course, brought the coveted World Series trophy home to Arlington. But Watts would rather talk about the charities started by Dylan Bundy and Malihai Adoni.

Bundy, a trade acquisition during Watts’ tumultuous first season, stayed with the organisation through 2025, but was granted his release after injuries took a toll on his career. While he is now playing in the far-off Korean Baseball Organization, his Bundy Foundation remains primarily focused on giving back to the Dallas/Fort Worth metro area, or the “Metroplex” as residents call it. Started after the 2019 season, Bundy’s most productive in a Rangers uniform, the foundation has contributed over 20 million dollars to various efforts, including a housing effort that slashed the area’s homeless population in half by providing free housing to millions of low-income, disabled, and otherwise underprivileged residents. Bundy contributed 25 percent of his annual salary to the foundation while with the Rangers from 2020 to 2025, adding $14.9 million to its donations and the initial $5 million donated by the team itself under Watts’ guidance.

Meanwhile, Adoni started a foundation of his own in July of last year, just before the league’s trade deadline. Having grown up poor in Tafuna, American Samoa, the right-hander knows what it’s like to struggle. His foundation, co-sponsored by Watts themself, works primarily with youth populations to combat inequality and youth suicide and homelessness. Originally signed as an under-the-radar free agent in December of 2020, the righty quickly rose to the majors, making his debut at just 22 years of age. While he has faced some adversity on the mound, the talented youngster dazzled last season with a monster breakout year, leading the league in wins (19), ERA (2.98), and innings pitched (223.2) on his way to the American League Cy Young Award and a top-ten finish in Most Valuable Player voting. (Teammate Nomar Mazara won that award, giving the Rangers three major award winners with Watts’ third Manager of the Year.) Adoni could be under control through 2034 depending on a series of decisions; he holds an opt-out after the 2030 season, and the team holds a pair of options in the final two years of the contract. “No matter what happens, we will always have Malihai’s back,” said Watts when I asked about the possibility of the star pitcher leaving for another team. “We love what he is doing for us on the field, and I can’t say enough about how wonderful he is off the field and in the locker room.”

As for Watts themself, they became the league’s first openly transgender and nonbinary executive when they came out following the 2019 season, their second on the job. Watts, who also identifies as aromantic and asexual, says their coming out has actually brought them closer to players, rather than alienating those who might not see the world the same way as they do. “Being open and honest, and showing that kind of vulnerability… it helped me feel more comfortable, and it let the players know that I really was there for them. They know they can come to me if they have any issues, and they know I’m going to treat them with respect and love,” Watts said. The skipper frequently checks in with their players to make sure everyone is doing okay, and Oliver is known to speak with opposing players as well. “In a way, I’m a lot like one of their peers,” said the 27-year-old. They noted that while MLB has yet to have an openly LGBTQA active player, they don’t believe that future is too far off. “I’ll just say… I’ve had some interesting conversations with a lot of kids who were happy to see someone in my position speak out and be myself.”

Looking ahead to the future, Oliver hopes that their team will continue to succeed on and off the field. “I am so proud of these kids… It’s very heartening to be able to be true to myself while also continuing to succeed in this competitive field,” they said. “I’m so proud.”

2026 Roster Breakdown: Texas Rangers

In this series, we’ll take a look at the 60 players in Major League camp with the Rangers and take our guesses as to which 25 will break camp with the club when Opening Day rolls around. The series will go from A to Z by surname, working in groups of ten for six total installments plus a final wrap-up with our full predictions.

(Key: Player / Uniform Number / Bats/Throws / Age / How Acquired / Salary / MLB Service Time / Options remaining)

OF Jordyn Adams / #31 / R/R / 26y/o / 2018/1st / $610,000 / 1.011 / Out of options

The talented Adams got his first extended taste of the bigs last year, starting 44 games in the outfield and finishing the season as Texas’s fourth outfielder. A tantalizing power/speed combo (Adams had 8 home runs and 8 stolen bases in just 199 PA in the majors) makes Adams a valuable bench asset, but he struggled to get on base with just a .266 OBP, and his defense is viewed as “tweener” territory — above-average in a corner, but subpar in center. If he hits well in Spring Training he could have the inside track for the fourth outfield slot again, and could even contend for the starting role in right field. However, if he fails to impress, he is out of options, and could be traded or outrighted.

Career stats: 67 G, 205 PA, .209/.273/.385, 8 HR, 9 SB/13 ATT, 19 RBI, 27 R, 70 OPS+, -0.5 WAR

SP Malihai Adoni / #71 / R/R / 27y/o / 2020/IFA / $15,300,000/2034 / 4.020 / 1 option

After working hard in the offseason, the popular and supremely talented Adoni comes into the spring with a stronghold on the #1 role in the starting rotation. Following a poor 2024, Adoni rebounded by winning a Cy Young and making 33 starts for the second year in a row. The Samoan native is a superstar already and could cement his status as a franchise legend with another dazzling campaign.

Career stats: 132 GS, 824.1 innings pitched, 48-48, 4.28 ERA, 4.46 FIP, 803 K, 306 BB, 11.3 WAR, 110 ERA+

SP Logan Allen / #46 / R/L / 28y/o / 2020/Rule 5 / $3,800,000/arb3 / 4.034 / 1 option

Allen has had a rollercoaster career since debuting with the Rangers five years ago. In each of the past two seasons he has been demoted to the minors. However, Allen was a 17-win pitcher in 2023, and has dazzled in the postseason (4-1, 2.11 ERA in 6 starts) with his performance a key part of the team’s 2022 championship run. The team will not simply hand Allen a role in the rotation, but he will be given plenty of chances to win one against underwhelming competition.

Career stats: 107 GS, 568.1 innings pitched, 47-20, 3.97 ERA, 4.75 FIP, 385 K, 184 BB, 6.0 WAR, 114 ERA+

INF Nick Allen / #1 / R/R / 27y/o / 2024/Trade with OAK / $610,000/arb1 / 2.096 / 1 option

The other Allen is a depth infielder who has seen significant major-league time in each of the past two seasons, owing mainly to his defense and versatility. While unlikely to crack the Opening Day roster, Allen is likely to stick on the 40-man roster all year and could provide valuable depth during the long season. Last year he hit .321 in limited action and served as a defensive sub at third base in 14 of his 30 games played.

Career stats: 292 G, 1050 PA, .270/.322/.342, 6 HR, 55 SB/67 ATT, 92 RBI, 117 R, 76 OPS+, 3.2 WAR

RP/SP Luis Arreola / #47 / R/R / 27y/o / 2024/Trade with CWS / $610,000 / 0.070 / 1 option

Puerto Rican righty Arreola made his major-league debut in 2025, pitching in 16 games, mostly in long relief. Despite possessing a plus fastball and curveball, Arreola’s struggles to keep the ball in the park will likely limit him to a low-leverage role, and could make him a 40-man casualty should the team need space.

Career stats: 16 G, 38.2 innings pitched, 0-1, 1 save, 4.66 ERA, 4.71 FIP, 31 K, 11 BB, -0.0 WAR, 95 ERA+

INF Derwin Barreto / #32 / S/R / 25y/o / 2017/IFA / NRI / 0.004 / 3 options

A homegrown prospect from Venezuela, Barreto was selected by Seattle in the Rule 5 draft last year but played only three games with the team before returning to the Texas organization. He then spent all of 2025 with the Round Rock Express (AAA affiliate of the Rangers), playing mostly shortstop while contributing a .384 OBP and 47 runs scored in 85 games. Barreto is a good infield defender with decent tools, but he simply lacks power and is buried on the depth chart as things stand.

Career stats: 3 G, 12 PA, .300/.417/.300, 0 HR, 1 SB/1 ATT, 0 RBI, 2 R, 98 OPS+, 0.1 WAR

RP Keiran Batts / #16 / R/R / 27y/o / 2020/1st / $610,000 / 0.107 / 1 option

A college reliever who signed for an under-slot $750,000 as the 15th overall pick in 2020, Batts has spent most of the last two seasons at the Triple-A level, putting up a combined 3.08 ERA and 10.8 K/9 at that level while pitching in mostly a middle relief role. He did see some major-league time in 2024 but did not play at the level in 2025. His primary offering is a high-90s fastball which induces plenty of groundballs from his sidearm angle.

Career stats: 12 G, 11.2 innings pitched, 0-1, 4.63 ERA, 4.08 FIP, 14 K, 9 BB, 0.1 WAR, 99 ERA+

SP Cooper Benson / #56 / L/L / 25y/o / 2022/3rd / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A two-time third-round pick (Benson was drafted out of high school 101st by the Boston organization, but failed to sign, and resurfaced three years later as the 100th overall pick), Benson enjoyed a breakout 2025 in which he started 25 games across the Double-A and Triple-A levels. The southpaw has yet to make his major-league debut, but that call could come soon if he continues to perform and demonstrate his balanced skillset.

Career stats (AAA): 13 GS, 74.2 innings pitched, 4-4, 3.50 ERA, 4.02 FIP, 60 K, 24 BB, 137 ERA+

1B Spencer Brickhouse / #6 / L/R / 27y/o / 2023/Trade with MIL / $610,000/arb1 / 2.000 / 3 options

Acquired in a minor offseason trade, Brickhouse skipped Triple-A almost entirely and exploded on the big stage as a rookie, making Texas’s Opening Day roster and starting 157 games at first base, hitting 45 home runs. He followed that up with a solid sophomore campaign, hitting 30 home runs and starting 137 games at first. In both years he was selected to the All-Star Game. Displaying impressive raw power from the left side and an elite glove at first base, Brickhouse is already signed for 2026 at a $3,600,000 salary and will avoid arbitration this offseason.

Career stats: 297 G, 1278 PA, .268/.309/.515, 75 HR, 3 SB/5 ATT, 198 RBI, 165 R, 108 OPS+, 4.2 WAR

CF Corbin Carroll / #62 / L/L / 25y/o / 2019/1st / $1,800,000/arb2 / 3.014 / 2 options

The second overall pick in 2019, Carroll tore through the minor leagues and made his major-league debut at age 21, going 5-for-12 in a three-game cameo in 2022. Since then, the rangy outfielder has mostly served as Texas’s starter in center field, earning an All-Star appearance in 2023. However, he posted a disappointing campaign in 2025, and is rumoured to be unhappy that he has not yet lived up to his high-flying potential. Early indications are that the Rangers will continue to give Carroll his chances; he is locked up for 2026 at a $2,300,000 salary, and is likely to hit near the bottom of the order to start 2025.

Career stats: 339 G, 1367 PA, .290/.334/.403, 20 HR, 73 SB/115 ATT, 158 RBI, 167 R, 91 OPS+, 4.6 WAR

Our series continues today with the next ten players in Texas’s spring camp.

RP Slade Cecconi / #18 / R/R / 26y/o / 2021/3rd / $610,000 / 0.162 / 2 options

A starter throughout the minors, Cecconi was shifted to the bullpen late in a dismal 2024 season at Triple-A and took to it well, evolving into a dynamic setup pitcher for the major-league club. The right-hander has electric stuff but struggles to harness it most of the time, allowing more than his fair share of walks and home runs.

Career stats: 54 G, 60 innings pitched, 4-3, 3 saves, 3.60 ERA, 3.83 FIP, 86 K, 38 BB, 0.8 WAR, 122 ERA+

RP Alfredo Celaya / #52 / R/R / 24y/o / 2026/Trade with ARI / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Acquired via trade just before pitchers and catchers reported, Celaya has been with the organisation for just a few days but has already made a huge impression with his power stuff. Celaya dominated at the Single-A level last year, racking up 33 saves with a 0.72 ERA and 10.5 K/BB, and winning the Midwest League’s Outstanding Pitcher award. Celaya is unlikely to jump three levels and break camp with the team, but stranger things have happened, and we wouldn’t count anything out for Celaya, for whom the sky seems to be the limit.

RP Wally Clark / #40 / S/R / 26y/o / 2022/4th / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Another starter-to-reliever conversion, Clark is still very raw but is a sinker/slider righty with advanced feel and off-the-charts fitness. A 2024 Arizona Fall League nominee like Celaya, Clark pitched out of the bullpen full-time in 2025, working in a multi-inning role with tremendous success at High-A with a brief cameo in Double-A also proving fruitful. Clark is almost guaranteed to spend at least one more year in the farm, but he seems to have the makings of a future impact reliever.

SP Hans Crouse / #98 / L/R / 27y/o / 2017/2nd / $610,000/arb1 / 1.163 / Out of options

Crouse was a highly-touted prospect who debuted in 2022 but did not make the big leagues for good until 2025, when he made 31 effective starts for a Rangers team desperate for rotation stability. Crouse features a bizarre motion that allows his already-plus fastball and curve to play up, and is also regarded as one of the team’s most important leaders. Crouse is signed to a one-year, $3.9 million extension for 2026.

Career stats: 58 G/56 GS, 316.1 innings pitched, 21-13, 4.13 ERA, 5.05 FIP, 255 K, 124 BB, 2.2 WAR, 116 ERA+

RP Ernesto Cuevas / #12 / R/R / 23y/o / 2020/3rd / $610,000 / 1.001 / 2 options

Cuevas, a dominant starter in high school who finished his senior year with an 0.97 ERA and 201 strikeouts, was immediately moved to the bullpen after being drafted and the move has paid off in the last two years, as Cuevas has been an effective reliever at both the Triple-A and Major League levels. Pairing a high-90s heater with a power slider, Cuevas is adept at keeping the ball on the ground, if hitters can manage to make contact at all. He is probably destined for another year on the shuttle between Round Rock and Arlington.

Career stats: 52 G, 73.1 innings pitched, 6-6, 1 save, 3.68 ERA, 4.68 FIP, 97 K, 40 BB, 0.0 WAR, 141 ERA+

2B/OF Jarod Dethridge / #10 / R/R / 25y/o / 2023/IFA / $610,000 / 1.000 / 3 options

A former number-one pick in the Australian Baseball League draft, Dethridge was quietly signed to a minor-league contract by the Rangers in February of 2023. Originally a center fielder, the dazzling Aussie moved to second base and started 116 games there as a rookie in 2025, also seeing a handful of starts in the outfield due to injuries. Dethridge showed his potential last year with 23 home runs and 11 steals, but his rate stats were far less impressive. The club certainly hopes the 25-year-old can blossom into a star player.

Career stats: 140 G, 584 PA, .242/.314/.435, 23 HR, 11 SB/19 ATT, 74 RBI, 64 R, 94 OPS+, 0.9 WAR

OF Danny Drullard / #44 / L/L / 25y/o / 2016/IFA / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

The 25-year-old Dominican spent all of 2025 with Frisco (AA), displaying the potential that has kept him climbing the organisational ladder. While he is a supreme longshot to make the major-league club, it will be interesting to see whether he is assigned back to Frisco or promoted to the Triple-A level to begin the year. Drullard’s calling card is his defense, though he has also shown potential for power, hitting 21 bombs in 127 games at Frisco.

RP Julian Fernandez / #70 / R/R / 30y/o / 2025/FA / $1,200,000 / 7.113 / 1 option

Coming back from a torn rotator cuff, the veteran right-hander only pitched in five major-league games in 2025. While he did not allow a run in 5.1 innings, he did allow four walks against seven strikeouts, showing why teams might be hesitant to hand him the ball in high-leverage situations. Still, the Dominican-born’s power stuff should at least give him a shot at some middle-relief work in Arlington this year.

Career stats: 225 G, 208.1 innings pitched, 13-16, 5 saves, 4.06 ERA, 4.44 FIP, 231 K, 157 BB, 0.7 WAR, 134 ERA+

INF Alberto Figuereo / #22 / S/R / 25y/o / 2024/Rule 5 / $610,000 / 1.000 / 3 options

A Rule 5 pick from Tampa Bay, Figuereo dazzled in 2025, starting 115 games in a super-sub role. He led the team with 21 steals and finished second with a .310 batting average. However, with a deep group of infielders, it’s possible the Dominican-born Figuereo could end up in Triple-A (a level he has never played at), but it’s more likely he continues to get a shot at the major-league level given the inconsistency of said group.

Career stats: 130 G, 453 PA, .310/.368/.380, 1 HR, 21 SB/28 ATT, 29 RBI, 57 R, 98 OPS+, 2.1 WAR

C Jonathan French / #28 / R/R / 25y/o / 2025/Trade with ARI / $610,000 / 0.036 / 2 options

It’s rare to find a backstop with the kind of athleticism French possesses. The 25-year-old made his major-league debut last September after tearing up the PCL, and his performance apparently was convincing enough to make the Rangers trade away franchise catcher Francisco Mejia. French possesses a balanced skillset with a plus arm his best tool.

Career stats: 11 G, 37 PA, .265/.324/.353, 1 HR, 1 SB/1 ATT, 2 RBI, 3 R, 78 OPS+, 0.1 WAR

3B/OF Joey Gallo / #13 / L/R / 32y/o / 2012/1st / $26,000,000/2031 / 9.103 / 1 option

Once thought of as the face of the franchise, Gallo is far from a sunk cost but badly needs a rebound year after scuffling through injuries and poor play in each of the past two seasons. Adding some intrigue to the normal spring activities is this nugget: Gallo has reportedly been seeing lots of time in the outfield, and a team statement claimed the slugger is being looked at as “an outfielder first” going into 2026.

Career stats: 1128 G, 4523 PA, .217/.341/.514, 323 HR, 62 SB/78 ATT, 733 RBI, 666 R, 120 OPS+, 22.2 WAR

RP Roy Garcia / #20 / R/R / 25y/o / 2024/Trade with STL / $610,000 / 0.025 / 1 option

Dominican-born Garcia made his MLB debut at the tail end of 2025, making four low-leverage appearances after a successful minor-league season. With just one option remaining, the Rangers are likely to at least give Garcia some time at the major-league level to see if he can contribute beyond 2026. The righty features a sinker, curveball, and slider and is a more-than-adequate pitcher in all regards.

Career stats: 4 G, 3.2 innings pitched, 0-0, 4.91 ERA, 4.85 FIP, 5 K, 2 BB, -0.0 WAR, 90 ERA+

RP Joe Griffin / #45 / L/L / 25y/o / 2024/Trade with STL / $610,000 / 0.025 / 2 options

Acquired in the same trade as Garcia, the left-handed Griffin has the upper hand for a bullpen job due to his advanced stuff and continued projectability. He already possesses a wipeout cutter and plus slider, and is only expected to get better from there. A lights-out 2025 at Frisco saw Griffin nail down 17 saves with a 1.49 ERA. However, he saw just eight innings above Double-A, so it is far from guaranteed that he will stick at this level.

Career stats: 2 G, 4 innings pitched, 1-0, 1 save, 0.00 ERA, 1.21 FIP, 4 K, 0 BB, 0.2 WAR, 999 ERA+

RP Nathan Hadley / #39 / R/R / 30y/o / 2019/22nd / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Minor-league veteran Hadley is likely an afterthought in camp and is merely a depth arm. The righty spent all of 2025 in Round Rock, earning two saves with a 4.09 ERA in 33 innings of work. A graduate of UCLA, Hadley’s strongest area is his ability to induce groundballs.

RP/SP Cole Henry / #36 / R/R / 26y/o / 2024/Trade with MIL / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Henry was a versatile asset for Round Rock in 2025, starting five games and appearing in 32 total, finishing 5-3 with four saves and 94 innings of 4.50 ERA ball. His versatility may well be his best asset, but with a strong enough showing, the right-hander could luck into a call-up at some point.

SP Osvaldo Hernandez / #17 / L/L / 27y/o / 2023/FA / $610,000 / 0.101 / 2 options

Hernandez made his major-league debut last season, making 13 starts at the highest level. He did not impress much. While walking only 16 batters in 68 innings is impressive and a testament to the lefty’s control, allowing 17 home runs in that same span is a significant cause for concern. Still, the Cuban has a definite hope of making some more starts at the MLB level in 2026.

Career stats: 13 GS, 68 innings pitched, 1-5, 6.88 ERA, 5.71 FIP, 54 K, 16 BB, -0.1 WAR, 64 ERA+

SP Chih-Wei Hu / #37 / R/R / 32y/o / 2023/Trade with MIL / $790,000/arb1 / 2.099 / Out of options

Hu has impressed over the past two seasons enough for manager Oliver Watts to all but guarantee the Taiwanese right-hander a rotation spot entering 2026. Like the left-handed Hernandez, Hu is a control specialist with below-average stuff; however, he induces ground balls at an extreme rate, enough to offset his subpar movement.

Career stats: 77 G/71 GS, 421.2 innings pitched, 29-20, 4.46 ERA, 4.79 FIP, 316 K, 96 BB, 4.1 WAR, 102 ERA+

RP Savion Janifer / #8 / R/R / 25y/o / 2025/Rule 5 / $610,000 / 0.000 / 3 options

Janifer was selected from Boston in the most recent Rule 5 draft, and must stay on the active roster or disabled list all season to remain with the organisation. The right-hander features excellent stuff, and blew through Single-A last year with 22 saves and a 0.96 ERA, with 85 strikeouts against 21 walks in 65 total innings. He has reached as high as High-A, but will skip two levels if he cracks the Opening Day roster. Janifer was a 2024 AFL selection and performed well with 7 saves, a 1.59 ERA, and 21 strikeouts against just one walk over 17 innings of work.

RP Joseph Jarneski / #15 / R/R / 26y/o / 2017/12th / $610,000 / 1.020 / Out of options

Hawaiian-born Jarneski is a complete pitcher who nonetheless has struggled with the long ball in his brief Major League career to date, surrendering 14 homers in 60 innings. After strong showings in the hitter-friendly PCL, Jarneski is likely to break camp with the big-league team, as the club is unlikely to expose him to waivers.

Career stats: 43 G, 60 innings pitched, 5-1, 1 save, 5.10 ERA, 5.18 FIP, 64 K, 21 BB, -0.3 WAR, 113 ERA+

RP Tyler Jay / #14 / L/L / 31y/o / 2018/Trade with MIN / $12,400,000/2029 / 6.014 / Out of options

Jay is likely to begin 2026 as the Rangers’ top high-leverage reliever, just as he finished 2025. The southpaw from Illinois made his MLB debut in 2019 and has been a stalwart of Watts’ bullpen since, racking up 101 holds and pitching in increasingly tough situations. He signed a three-year extension in the offseason with a player option for 2029. Last year, Jay nailed down a career-high 24 saves to go with a career-low 2.49 ERA; his 2.0 BB/9 was also a career-low.

Career stats: 395 G, 436 innings pitched, 24-19, 38 saves, 3.34 ERA, 3.02 FIP, 570 K, 144 BB, 10.9 WAR, 140 ERA+

RP Jim Jeske / #11 / R/R / 26y/o / 2022/5th / $610,000 / 0.136 / 3 options

Jeske is a converted catcher who took admirably to the mound, soaring through the minor-league ranks and staying with the big-league club for most of 2026 after making his debut. The Taiwanese-American right-hander possesses a changeup that is among the best in the league, pairing it with his mid-90s fastball.

Career stats: 38 G, 39.2 innings pitched, 3-1, 1 save, 3.18 ERA, 4.88 FIP, 39 K, 22 BB, -0.1 WAR, 139 ERA+

SS Ha-Seong Kim / #3 / R/R / 30y/o / 2025/Trade with SF / $20,400,000/2028 (arb3) / 2.000 / 3 options

Kim, acquired last June for another talented infielder in Anderson A. Tejeda, has excelled in his first two years stateside after spending his early career in the KBO. The Seoul native plays an excellent, well-rounded game and is considered by many scouts to be a five-tool player who works hard to get the most out of those tools. He is a lock to hit in the middle of the order for Watts in 2026.

Career stats: 278 G, 971 PA, .287/.344/.498, 43 HR, 22 SB/32 ATT, 141 RBI, 127 R, 124 OPS+, 6.9 WAR (nice)

RP Camden Kreamer / #41 / R/R / 23y/o / 2023/1st / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A first-round pick two years ago and an AFL selection in 2025, Kreamer is unlikely to make the big-league roster but is rising quickly as a prospect, hitting Double-A for a nine-game cameo last season. His fastball and changeup still need polish, but the sidearming Calgary native is a future high-leverage pitcher if all works out.

RP/SP Dean Kremer / #94 / R/R / 30y/o / 2026/FA / $850,000 / 0.000 / 3 options

The first-ever Israeli citisen to be drafted in MLB, Kremer was signed on New Year’s Day and is likely to get an extended look in camp. He could contribute in a multitude of roles, but has spent the last two years working exclusively as a reliever. He has yet to make his debut, but would

Career stats (AAA): 138 G/27 GS, 301.1 innings pitched, 18-18, 9 saves, 3.32 ERA, 4.17 FIP, 335 K, 126 BB, 163 ERA+

OF Ronier Lascarro / #1 / L/L / 25y/o / 2017/IFA / $610,000 / 0.112 / 1 option

Given a crowded outfield picture, it will be hard for Lascarro to crack the Opening Day roster. But stranger things have happened, and the Venezuelan impressed late last year with his elite defense and speed, making him a prime candidate for the fourth outfielder’s role.

Career stats: 23 G, 51 PA, .222/.314/.289, 0 HR, 3 SB/4 ATT, 3 RBI, 10 R, 60 OPS+, 0.1 WAR

RP Jon Martin / #23 / R/R / 26y/o / 2025/Waivers / $610,000 / 0.079 / 2 options

A waiver claim from the Cubs in November, Martin’s electric stuff excites the Rangers, who believe the righty was simply rushed to the majors too soon. Martin was with the Cubs when they took down the Rangers in last year’s World Series, and as a former first-round pick, he comes to camp with plenty of pedigree.

Career stats: 24 G, 18.2 innings pitched, 0-1, 11.57 ERA, 10.86 FIP, 25 K, 10 BB, -1.3 WAR, 39 ERA+

DH/OF Nomar Mazara / #30 / L/L / 30y/o / 2011/IFA / $25,000,000 / 10.000 / 3 options

The Rangers picked up Mazara’s option for 2026, but the Dominican known as “The Big Chill” is currently unsigned past this season. It is likely the team wants to get a deal done given that Mazara has been the team’s best offensive player for the better part of a decade now. He led the league in five offensive categories in 2025, including runs scored (122) and OBP (.427). Mazara is guaranteed to be the team’s leadoff hitter once again this season.

Career stats: 1509 G, 6663 PA, .303/.388/.542, 338 HR, 43 SB/60 ATT, 974 RBI, 1060 R, 141 OPS+, 41.5 WAR

C Max McDowell / #73 / R/R / 32y/o / 2024/FA / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A former star in the Honkbal Hoofdklasse (HH), McDowell has served as an upper-level depth catcher in the organisation for two seasons, and is unlikely to contribute at the major-league level this season. The Pittsburgh native won several accolades during his time in the HH, including two championships.

OF Alex McKenna / #64 / R/R / 28y/o / 2019/3rd / $610,000/arb1 / 1.162 / Out of options

McKenna, like Jordyn Adams, is a tweener-type who possesses excellent athleticism but has failed to turn that into results at the MLB level. McKenna has made 141 starts in right field for the Rangers across his three-year career, and it is more likely that he cracks the team as its starter there than as its fourth outfielder.

Career stats: 189 G, 704 PA, .263/.347/.405, 19 HR, 15 SB/30 ATT, 79 RBI, 97 R, 95 OPS+, 0.8 WAR

C M.J. Melendez / #9 / L/R / 27y/o / 2022/Trade with TOR / $610,000/arb1? / 1.161 / 1 option

An elite defender behind the plate, Melendez has earned rave reviews for his work with the pitching staff, and is an effective contributor on the offensive side of the ball as well. The former second-rounder is likely to get the bulk of starts at catcher in 2026 given his experience as the team’s backup catcher behind Mejia the last two years.

Career stats: 94 G, 312 PA, .245/.324/.419, 8 HR, 3 SB/3 ATT, 29 RBI, 50 R, 91 OPS+, 1.2 WAR

INF Hueston Morrill / #81 / R/R / 25y/o / 2021/1st / NRI / 0.025 / 2 options

Morrill made a September cameo, serving exclusively as a late-innings sub at shortstop, where his defense is close to elite. He projects as a future utility infielder, not only due to the presence of Ha-Seong Kim, but due to his below-average offensive upside as well. Morrill’s best case scenario is reflected in his High-A campaign two years ago, when he hit .277/.340/.445 with 10 home runs and 11 stolen bases across 76 games (earning him a promotion to Double-A, where he stayed for most of 2025).

Career stats: 11 G, 4 PA, 1 for 4, 2 K

1B Yanio Perez / #51 / R/R / 30y/o / 2016/IFA / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Perez has spent the past eight seasons with Round Rock, primarily seeing action at first base. The Cuban is not viewed as much more than organisational depth, but has shown some potential at times.

Career stats (AAA): 479 G, 1878 PA, .268/.330/.460, 69 HR (nice), 13 SB/19 ATT, 275 RBI, 246 R, 103 OPS+

INF Ford Proctor / #61 / L/R / 29y/o / 2020/Trade with CWS / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A product of Rice University, Proctor is a productive depth piece due to his excellent instincts all over the diamond — at bat, in the field, and on the bases. He is unlikely to barge into the team’s already-crowded infield picture, but with more strong play at Triple-A, he could do exactly that.

Career stats (AAA): 126 G, 507 PA, .277/.356/.422, 8 HR, 4 SB/7 ATT, 69 RBI, 52 R, 101 OPS+

RP/SP Jose Quintana / #27 / R/L / 37y/o / 2026/Trade with ARI / $22,200,000/2027 / 13.133 / 2 options

Acquired in the trade that sent catcher Francisco Mejia to Arizona, Quintana is a veteran left-hander at the tail end of his career. He is unlikely to hit the 180 innings required to vest his 2027 option, but the Colombian has been a durable innings-eater in the past, starting 34 games three years ago before a torn labrum shelved him for most of 2024.

Career stats: 321 G/289 GS, 1776.1 innings pitched, 97-87, 3.72 ERA, 3.73 FIP, 1465 K, 499 BB, 33.1 WAR, 115 ERA+

SP Kumar Rocker / #38 / R/R / 26y/o / 2022/Trade with CLE / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A two-time first-round pick (both times by Cleveland, a year apart), Rocker is a Vanderbilt product and a highly regarded prospect whose stock has fallen slightly since his pro debut. Nonetheless, the Rangers believe in the righty and think he can start games at the major-league level in a year or two.

INF Aaron Sabato / #79 / S/R / 26y/o / 2024/Trade with PIT / $610,000 / 0.041 / 2 options

Primarily a third baseman, Sabato has seen time at second base and shortstop as the club sought to increase his versatility and appeal as a utility option. However, the UNC product and former second-round draft pick has a chance to take over at third base if Joey Gallo’s move to the outfield proves fruitful. There, Sabato features above-average arm strength, 70-grade raw power, and solid fundamentals that make up for his fringy range and affinity for strikeouts.

Career stats: 16 G, 43 PA, .225/.279/.425, 2 HR, 0 SB/1 ATT, 5 RBI, 5 R, 81 OPS+, -0.1 WAR

RP/SP Dennis Santana / #77 / R/R / 29y/o / 2024/Waivers / $2,200,000/arb4 / 4.171 / Out of options

A sinker-slider righty who adds an average changeup, Santana has posted an ERA under 2.90 in each of his five major-league seasons. His FIP tells a different story, sitting a full run higher for his career. However, there is no denying that the lanky Dominican has been remarkably effective and consistent in the run prevention department. Santana can both start and relieve, but has generally worked out of the bullpen in the Majors.

Career stats: 244 G/10 GS, 356 innings pitched, 17-14, 5 saves, 2.71 ERA, 3.77 FIP, 367 K, 152 BB, 4.7 WAR, 165 ERA+

RP Luis Santana / #24 / R/R / 26y/o / 2023/IFA / $800,000 / 0.104 / 1 option

Signed as an advanced free-agent out of Cuba in December of 2023, Santana has made only brief forays into the majors, spending most of his time with the Express. He features a plus fastball (sitting 97-99) and an above-average splitter, and has been effective in Triple-A, with 27 saves, a 2.72 ERA, and a 10.0 K/9 across 80 appearances.

Career stats: 8 G, 12 innings pitched, 0-1, 7.50 ERA, 7.88 FIP, 15 K, 5 BB, -0.5 WAR, 79 ERA+

RP/SP Savion Schuyler / #33 / R/R / 25y/o / 2024/Trade with PIT / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Still recovering from elbow ligament reconstruction surgery undergone in May, Schuyler is likely to miss most of camp, but is rehabbing with the big-leaguers this spring after spending last year in Triple-A. He is all but guaranteed to repeat that level after tossing only 4.2 innings before said surgery.

OF Josh Shuler / #25 / L/R / 24y/o / 2026/Waivers / $610,000 / 0.163 / 2 options

Shuler tore an elbow ligament last May, but as a position player, his rehab schedule has him ready to compete for a job in camp. The lefty-swinging, righty-throwing Shuler has tons of raw tools but has only 13 games of experience above Single-A.

Career stats: 1 G, 2 PA, 0 for 2, 1 K

SP Mike Soroka / #4 / R/R / 28y/o / 2022/Trade with ATL / $9,500,000/2029 / 6.011 / Out of options

Soroka, a control specialist, has stayed mostly healthy since joining the Rangers in a midseason trade four years ago. However, his 2025 ended slightly premature due to a partially torn labrum. He is fully recovered now and is expected to compete in camp with no restrictions, but questions loom whether Soroka is the same pitcher he was a few years ago, when he helped Texas win its first World Series in franchise history.

Career stats: 173 G/166 GS, 967.1 innings pitched, 52-56, 4.78 ERA, 4.58 FIP, 721 K, 221 BB, 11.8 WAR, 97 ERA+

OF Leody Taveras / #2 / S/R / 27y/o / 2015/IFA / $12,000,000/2031 / 5.028 / 1 option

Taveras is a star whose above-average offense and elite defense make him one of the game’s best outfielders. He defers to Corbin Carroll in center field but will get some time there throughout the season; he mostly plays left, and has won two Gold Gloves for his work there. After a breakout campaign at the plate, Taveras is in the mix for a spot at the top of the lineup.

Career stats: 659 G, 2741 PA, .286/.360/.439, 75 HR, 120 SB/183 ATT, 314 RBI, 405 R, 108 OPS+, 16.9 WAR

RP Luis Vargas / #43 / R/R / 23y/o / 2024/1st / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Vargas, a reliever with off-the-charts stuff, was a supplemental first-rounder from New Mexico State two years ago; while he has yet to touch the upper minors, he could very well see the majors this season, simply due to how dominant he has been in the professional ranks. Vargas was assigned to Spokane (A-) immediately after signing, a rare move under the Watts regime, and the right-hander struck out more than two batters per inning in 2025.

OF Nelson Velazquez / #19 / R/R / 27y/o / 2022/Trade with CHC / $610,000/arb1 / 2.002 / Out of options

Velazquez started 86 games in right field for the Rangers last year, and is a candidate for the fourth outfield job, or could bump Joey Gallo back to the dirt. The Puerto Rican, like Jordyn Adams and Alex McKenna, is out of options, leading to an imminent roster crunch barring unexpected developments. The position battle could simply come down to whose skillset the Rangers favour — Velazquez has above-average tools but struggles with contact.

Career stats: 129 G, 479 PA, .237/.309/.490, 27 HR, 8 SB/14 ATT, 74 RBI, 71 R, 104 OPS+, 1.6 WAR

1B/DH Brendan Venter / #50 / R/R / 29y/o / 2018/9th / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

The South African is merely a depth player; he has spent the past three-and-a-half seasons with Round Rock, splitting time at first base and designated hitter with Yanio Perez and a number of actual prospects.

Career stats (AAA): 282 G, 1251 PA, .283/.353/.488, 51 HR, 3 SB/6 ATT, 198 RBI, 170 R, 117 OPS+

OF Drew Waters / #48 / R/R / 27y/o / 2022/Trade with ATL / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A toolsy outfielder who was a second-round pick out of high school, Waters’ offensive game took a significant step back in 2025, moving him from “future contributor” closer to “depth”. Waters is yet another tweener who has struggled in center field but is above-average in the corners.

Career stats (AAA): 120 G, 508 PA, .284/.378/.460, 16 HR, 23 SB/28 ATT, 68 RBI, 67 R, 118 OPS+

RP/SP Alex Wells / #5 / L/L / 28y/o / 2024/Waivers / $950,000/arb2 / 2.161 / Out of options

A versatile swingman, Wells has primarily pitched in long relief since coming to Texas. The Australian lefty has pinpoint control, which offsets his fringy stuff and movement. He is likely to continue in the multi-inning role previously patrolled by Reynaldo Lopez.

Career stats: 127 G/8 GS, 264.1 innings pitched, 12-7, 5 saves, 4.05 ERA, 4.41 FIP, 197 K, 62 BB, 1.6 WAR, 117 ERA+

C Matt Whatley / #35 / R/R / 30y/o / 2017/3rd / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Whatley is a depth catcher who has patrolled the upper minors for the past six and a half seasons, finally seeing significant action in Triple-A last season. His defense and leadership are definite assets, but he doesn’t hit enough to have much of a chance at succeeding in the majors.

Career stats (AAA): 91 G, 337 PA, .201/.293/.354, 10 HR, 0 SB/0 ATT, 35 RBI, 39 R, 68 OPS+

OF Isranel Wilson / #49 / R/R / 27y/o / 2024/Trade with STL / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

A product of Saint-Martinnais, Wilson is a talented outfielder whose off-field issues have clouded his future. He returns to the Rangers’ organisation after hitting 15 homers in 85 games at Round Rock in 2025.

INF Kazuhiko Yamamoto / #21 / R/R / 23y/o / 2025/Waivers / $610,000 / 0.037 / 2 options

Yamamoto is a rangy defender with above-average plate discipline and speed. However, his instincts on the bases are a clear liability, and he is not much of a hitter. The Japan-born shortstop is likely to spend most, if not all, of 2026 in the minors refining his game.

Career stats: 21 G, 80 PA, .225/.287/.352, 2 HR, 0 SB/1 ATT, 8 RBI, 6 R, 76 OPS+, 0.2 WAR

*Bonus profiles!*

SP Cole Ragans / #53 / L/L / 28y/o / 2016/1st / $1,000,000 / 3.070 / 1 option

A former first-round pick and once thought of as the team’s future ace, Ragans’ career was derailed by a series of injuries, including a torn UCL in 2018 and a second elbow surgery just seven months ago. He was brought back on a one-year deal to hopefully provide some depth to the team’s upper-level pitching.

Career stats: 79 G/78 GS, 424 innings pitched, 30-17, 4.46 ERA, 3.73 FIP, 462 K, 181 BB, 9.6 WAR, 103 ERA+

INF Bryce Osmond / #19 / R/R / 25y/o / 2026/Trade with TOR / NRI / 0.000 / 3 options

Acquired in a sudden trade that sent Nelson Velazquez to Toronto, Osmond is a former fifth-round pick who has produced in Double-A but has yet to get a shot above that level. He is primarily a third baseman, and his plus arm strength makes him an asset there, but he possesses the capability to play shortstop and potentially some second base. He also features above-average power and baserunning instincts.

Final Predictions

Players out of options: RHP Hans Crouse, RHP Chih-Wei Hu, RHP Mike Soroka, RHP Joseph Jarneski, LHP Tyler Jay, RHP Dennis Santana, LHP Alex Wells, OF Jordyn Adams, OF Alex McKenna

Players who can refuse assignment: Soroka, RHP Julian Fernandez, Jay, LHP Jose Quintana, INF/OF Joey Gallo, OF Leody Taveras, OF Nomar Mazara

Rotation: RHP Malihai Adoni, Crouse, Hu, Soroka, LHP Logan Allen
Bullpen: Jay, Santana, Jarneski, Wells, Quintana, RHP Ernesto Cuevas, RHP Savion Janifer, RHP Jim Jeske
Catchers: Jonathan French, M.J. Melendez
Infielders: Spencer Brickhouse, Jarod Dethridge, Joey Gallo, Alberto Figuereo, Ha-Seong Kim
Outfielders: Leody Taveras, Corbin Carroll, Jordyn Adams, Nomar Mazara, Alex McKenna
Bubble: LHP Osvaldo Hernandez, RHP Luis Arreola, RHP Slade Cecconi, RHP Alfredo Celaya, Fernandez, RHP Roy Garcia, LHP Joe Griffin, RHP Dean Kremer, RHP Jon Martin, RHP Luis Santana, RHP Luis Vargas (holy shit we have a lot of relievers), INF Aaron Sabato, INF Nick Allen, OF Josh Shuler

2026 Opening Day Roster

SP: Malihai Adoni, Hans Crouse, Chih-Wei Hu, Mike Soroka
RP: Luis Arreola (R), Slade Cecconi (R), Savion Janifer (R), Joseph Jarneski, Tyler Jay, Jose Quintana, Dennis Santana, Alex Wells
C: Jonathan French (R), M.J. Melendez
INF: Spencer Brickhouse, Jarod Dethridge, Joey Gallo, Nick Allen, Alberto Figuereo, Ha-seong Kim
OF: Leody Taveras, Corbin Carroll, Jordyn Adams, Nomar Mazara, Alex McKenna

Notes:
— RHP Yonny Chirinos will be the team’s fifth starter, but is not needed until 4/6.
— INF Nick Allen is on the roster to cover for Kim, who suffered a minor injury and will miss the first two games.
— Gallo is listed as an infielder despite working most of spring as an outfielder.