Rangers Face Roster Challenges Amid Aging Contracts
The Texas Rangers are entering a pivotal offseason after finishing the 2026 season with an 80-82 record, missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. The team has struggled to capitalize on a weak division and has been average since their 2023 World Series win, largely due to an aging roster.
Texas ranks among the oldest teams in Major League Baseball, with an average player age of 29.3 for position players and 30.3 for pitchers. The front office faces challenges as ownership has reduced spending following a failed local TV contract, limiting their ability to make significant roster changes. At the trade deadline, the Rangers opted for minimal moves, acquiring a middle reliever and a backup catcher instead of pursuing larger trades.
President of baseball operations Chris Young indicated a desire to revamp the roster, aiming to enhance the team's athleticism and competitiveness. However, key players like Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi hold no-trade clauses, complicating potential trades. Both players are entering the final years of their contracts, and while Eovaldi's performance has been solid, his age and salary may deter teams. The Rangers may need to explore trades involving younger players or those with less restrictive contracts to address their roster needs.
