The Texas Rangers finalized a two-year $37 million contract with Designated Hitter Joc Pederson yesterday. The signee was excited about the team’s prognosis heading into 2025. At his introductory press conference, Pederson said, “It’s time for us to take over the N.L. West.” That is immense confidence from a player who has not played one game with his new team.
Pederson joins a Texas Rangers team that revamped its roster this offseason after missing the MLB Playoffs and winning the World Series in 2023. The team entered 2024 with lofty expectations but fell short of them. Texas is looking to get back on track in 2025 and Pederson took note of that. Will Pederson’s premonition end up coming true or will 2025 be another disappointing season for the Texas Rangers?
Texas Rangers Offseason Moves
Can the retooled @Rangers finish 2025 as the best in the west? pic.twitter.com/hQZowg7dQD
— MLB (@MLB) December 31, 2024
Texas Rangers Executive Vice President & General Manager Chris Young has had a busy first few months of the offseason. Pederson joins a roster that includes Starting Pitcher Nathan Eovaldi, Third Baseman Jake Burger, Relief Pitcher Robert Garcia, and Catcher Kyle Higashioka. All of these players were either acquired or signed this offseason.
Even before such a busy fall, the Texas Rangers roster was not devoid of talent. Holdovers from last year’s roster are Catcher Jonah Heim, Second Baseman Marcus Semien, Shortstop Corey Seager, and Right Fielder Adolis Garcia. Texas should also expect a full season from two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom who underwent Tommy John surgery after six starts in 2023. He returned late last season and fared well. deGrom will look to remain healthy for the first time since 2020.
Final Thoughts
The Texas Rangers have all the makings of a ballclub that can compete in 2025. They have overhauled their roster after a disappointing 2024 campaign. It will not be easy for them though to make the MLB Playoffs in 2025 with teams with teams like the New York Yankees, Cleveland Guardians, Houston Astros, and the Kansas City Royals looking just as good next season. Texas has done a great job this offseason, and now baseball fans will wait and see how it will play out on the diamond.
