MLB Analyst Forecasts 2 Free Agents to Join Rangers According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Texas Rangers are poised to enhance their roster as they aim to defend their first-ever World Series title.
Heyman predicts that left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery and designated hitter J.D. Martinez, two prominent free agents, will likely sign with the Rangers. With opening day looming just around the corner, both players, represented by Scott Boras, are seeking new teams.
Despite Rangers general manager Chris Young suggesting that their player acquisitions are essentially complete, Heyman believes there’s still room for additions. He suggests that Texas might offer Montgomery a contract akin to those recently agreed upon by Cody Bellinger with the Chicago Cubs and Matt Chapman with the San Francisco Giants, both of whom are also Boras clients. These deals include three-year terms with opt-out clauses after the 2024 and 2005 seasons, following their inability to secure anticipated nine-figure contracts.
As for Martinez, the 36-year-old slugger may have to settle for a one-year deal.
Jordan Montgomery’s Potential Return Montgomery played a significant role in the Rangers’ championship campaign last season, joining from the St. Louis Cardinals via trade. His impressive performance included a 4-2 record with a 2.79 ERA in 11 regular-season starts, followed by a 3-1 record and 2.90 ERA in the postseason across five starts and one relief appearance.
With three projected rotation members starting the season on the injured list due to surgeries, the Rangers are in need of starting pitching depth. Notably, Max Scherzer (back) is anticipated to return around June, while Jacob deGrom and Tyler Mahle, both recovering from elbow operations, are likely to be sidelined until after the All-Star break.
The initial rotation is expected to feature Nathan Eovaldi and Jon Gray, alongside lefties Andrew Heaney and Cody Bradford, and Dane Dunning. Heyman also suggests potential interest in Montgomery from other teams such as the Giants, Boston Red Sox, Cubs, New York Mets, and New York Yankees.
J.D. Martinez Boosting the Lineup The Rangers boasted an impressive offensive performance last season, ranking third in both runs per game (5.33) and home runs (233). Adding Martinez to the lineup could further bolster their offensive prowess.
Martinez, a six-time All-Star, had a strong season with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year, hitting .271/.321/.572 in 113 games, with 33 home runs and 103 RBIs.
While rookie Wyatt Langford is currently slated as the primary designated hitter, having been drafted fourth overall from the University of Florida, he has limited professional experience, prompting the Rangers to potentially consider giving him more time at Triple-A Round Rock.
Heyman also identifies the Los Angeles Angels, Mets, and Giants as potential suitors for Martinez.
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