3 players for Texas Rangers to target this offseason

The Texas Rangers are going to be a factor again this offseason.

It was clear that the Rangers are aiming to return to glory. Their 2021-22 offseason spending spree resulted in Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Jon Gray heading to Texas, exciting the fan base and making it clear that the organization was looking to contend soon. Then the Rangers posted a 68-94 record; an eight game improvement, but not even close to what they had hoped for.

Three players Texas Rangers should target

Clearly, there is more work to be done. That includes the pitching staff, where Gray was a solid addition and Martin Perez had a career season. The Rangers are looking to keep Perez, but even if that happens, they need far more. Since it is clear that the Rangers are looking to win now, this should be another exciting offseason with some big pieces coming to Arlington.

The Texas Rangers still have a lot of work to do on their roster. Let’s take a look at three players they could target this offseason.

Nathan Eovaldi

Typically, signing a backup catcher over the final few days of the regular season would not mean anything for the future. But that is not the case with the Texas Rangers and Kevin Plawecki.

A beloved figure in the Red Sox clubhouse and someone regarded as a leader everywhere he has been, Boston’s decision to release Plawecki did not go over well. The Rangers quickly scooped him up despite seemingly being set at the catcher position, bringing him on board for the final two weeks of the regular season. Although he is currently a free agent, it would not be a surprise if he returns to Texas.

This decision to bring Plawecki in could be part of a long term strategy. Several pitchers on the Red Sox were upset with the move, with Nathan Eovaldi being particularly vocal about his displeasure. As Eovaldi is a free agent, the Red Sox moving on from Plawecki could factor into his decision this offseason.

Enter the Rangers. They are in desperate need of several arms, particularly at the top of the rotation. Eovaldi may not be an ace, but he would be a strong second or third starter, giving the Rangers much more depth in an area where it is desperately needed. And, if they bring Plawecki back, they may have an inroad to convincing Eovaldi to head to Texas. Add in the fact that he is a native of Texas, such a move could be possible.

The Texas Rangers need to revamp their starting rotation. Bringing Nathan Eovaldi on board would be a step in that direction.

Carlos Rodon

The Texas Rangers have made it clear that they are going to focus on the top end of the pitching market.

As it is, the Rangers and Jacob deGrom have mutual interest in one another. Jon Heyman of the New York Post has been amongst those to report that the two sides have had discussions on a contract. However, deGrom is also 34 years old, has battled injuries over the past few years, and may be looking for a team that will win now. The Rangers may not fit that model.

Instead, another pitcher could make much more sense. Carlos Rodon proved his breakout 2021 campaign was not a fluke with another strong showing last season. After opting out of his contract, he is seeking the type of long term commitment that he had not received thus far in his career.

The Rangers could be the perfect opportunity for that to happen. Rodon is younger than deGrom at 30 years old and is still in the midst of his hypothetical prime. That relative youth, along with his potentially looking for stability more than a team that is going to immediately contend, could make Texas a prime landing spot. It is not a surprise that, according to Jon Morosi, the two sides have already had contact.

The Texas Rangers need a true top of the rotation arm in order to contend. Carlos Rodon could end up being that ace they need.