Texas Rangers Make a Surprising Long-Term Bet on Injured Reliever Declan Cronin
The Texas Rangers are thinking beyond the next season — they’re building for the future. In a surprising but strategic move, the club has inked right-handed reliever Declan Cronin to a two-year deal, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.
A Vision for the Future
Cronin’s signing reflects the Rangers’ forward-thinking mindset. The 28-year-old is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery performed in September, which will likely sideline him for the entire 2026 season. By securing him early, the Rangers are betting on his long-term potential, expecting him to return strong by 2027.
Declan Cronin
Who Is Declan Cronin?
Standing 6-foot-4, Cronin’s career has been full of twists. Drafted in the 36th round by the Chicago White Sox out of Holy Cross, he made his MLB debut in 2023, appearing in nine games with a 9.00 ERA. But in 2024, while with the Miami Marlins, he showed major improvement — pitching in 56 games with a 4.35 ERA and 72 strikeouts over 70.1 innings.
Declan Cronin
Why the Rangers Made the Move
Despite his current injury, the Rangers’ decision signals confidence in Cronin’s upside. It’s a calculated risk that could pay off once he’s healthy again.
Declan Cronin
Rather than chasing only short-term gains, Texas is investing in depth, development, and durability — a move that could strengthen their bullpen for 2027 and beyond.
In a league often obsessed with immediate results, the Rangers’ bold signing of Cronin stands out as a commitment to the future, proving that smart teams think several seasons ahead.
