Rangers Seeking to Fix Offensive Shortcomings After 2025 Struggles
The Texas Rangers’ greatest obstacle in 2025 wasn’t their pitching — it was their bats. Even though they posted the league’s best ERA (3.47), the defending champions finished a disappointing 81–81 and missed the postseason. Ranking 26th in OPS (.683), the team’s inconsistency at the plate was their undoing. As they turn toward 2026, the front office may look to add a proven hitter — and a three-time batting champion could be just what they need.
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Luis Arráez
Luis Arráez Emerges as a Potential Target
MLB insider Mark Feinsand recently listed Luis Arráez among the top free agents who could shape the market this offseason. In his report, he identified the Rangers, Angels, and Giants as possible landing spots for the accomplished first baseman.
Arráez’s résumé speaks for itself: he won the American League batting title in 2022 with the Twins (.316) and captured back-to-back National League crowns in 2023 (.354) and 2024 (.314). Although his numbers dipped slightly in 2025, he still hit .292 with an NL-best 181 hits for the Padres — proof he remains one of baseball’s premier contact hitters.
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Luis Arráez
Strengths and Limitations of Arráez’s Game
Arráez brings elite bat-to-ball skills but has clear weaknesses. He lacks home-run power (.392 slugging, 8 homers in 2025) and doesn’t walk much (.327 on-base percentage). He’s not known for his speed either, and his defense at first base rated poorly last season (-9 outs above average).
Given those limitations, Texas could view Arráez as more of a designated hitter than an everyday first baseman, potentially pairing him with a stronger defensive option at the position.
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Luis Arráez
A Well-Traveled Hitter with Proven Consistency
Despite his accomplishments, Arráez has already suited up for three different clubs. After four seasons in Minnesota, he was traded to Miami for pitcher Pablo López, then moved again to San Diego midway through 2024. His frequent trades show that teams often prioritize all-around versatility over a single elite skill — even one as valuable as his hitting.
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Could Arráez Be the Answer in Texas?
The Rangers’ path back to contention starts with improving their offense, and Arráez could offer the contact and consistency they’ve been missing. While not a power hitter or defensive star, his ability to get on base and set the table might be exactly what Texas needs to balance its lineup and return to playoff form.
