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The Texas Rangers' playoff drought extended to three consecutive seasons in 2025, a stark contrast to their 2023 World Series triumph. Despite a late-season push that kept them in contention until the final day, the club ultimately fell short, leaving the front office with clear roster upgrades to make this winter.
With a solid core already in place, the Rangers are expected to seek complementary pieces around their stars. One name gaining traction is Gleyber Torres, the veteran infielder who spent the past few seasons with the Detroit Tigers. Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly recently projected Torres to land in Texas on a one-year, $12 million deal that includes a $15 million mutual option for 2028.
Torres, who will play the 2026 season at age 30, saw his 2025 campaign derailed by a left oblique strain that limited him to 96 games. That injury followed a core muscle issue he had played through, eventually requiring offseason surgery. In the second half of 2025, after earning his third career All-Star nod, he managed just a .659 OPS.
Injuries have undoubtedly dimmed his market, but when healthy, Torres remains a productive hitter. Though he never blossomed into the superstar many envisioned after clubbing 62 home runs in his first two MLB seasons with the Yankees, he posted a .754 OPS from 2022 through 2025. In 2025 with Detroit, he slashed .260/.364/.363 with eight home runs, 38 RBIs, and 57 walks, good for a .727 OPS.
"In an era when baseball lacks quality right-handed hitters, there's still plenty of reason to be interested in Torres' services," Kelly wrote.
Key Analysis
For Texas, adding Torres could address a glaring need for offensive consistency. The Rangers struggled to score runs in 2025, and Torres' ability to get on base and make contact would help mitigate those issues. A one-year deal with an option for 2028 gives the club financial flexibility and upside if Torres can rebound from his injury-plagued season. While health remains a concern, Torres' track record as a three-time All-Star and his underrated skill set make him a potential bargain. If he stays on the field, this could be one of the offseason's most savvy signings.
Originally reported by yahoo.