Cronin Joins Rangers Amid Tommy John Recovery
The Texas Rangers have signed right-hander Declan Cronin to a minor league contract with an invitation to MLB Spring Training. Cronin, released by the Marlins in September, is expected to miss the 2026 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. Despite the setback, Texas is betting on his eventual return to provide bullpen depth in the future.
Cronin’s Journey From White Sox to Marlins
A 36th-round pick by the Chicago White Sox in 2019, Cronin primarily worked as a reliever and reached Triple-A by 2022. He made his MLB debut with Chicago in 2023, pitching in nine games before moving through Houston and Miami. Cronin was a key bullpen piece for Miami in 2024, making 56 appearances with a 4.35 ERA over 70 1/3 innings, though injuries curtailed much of his 2025 season.
Richie Martin Brings Experience and Depth
Shortstop Richie Martin, who joined Texas on a minor league deal in May, will remain after hitting .258 in 79 games at Triple-A Round Rock. Martin has MLB experience with Baltimore, appearing in parts of three seasons. Drafted in the first round by the Athletics in 2015, Martin has battled injuries but adds veteran depth to the Rangers’ infield.
Gray and Supak Bolster the Minors
Right-handers Peyton Gray and Trey Supak were also added to the Rangers’ minor league system with spring training invitations. Gray, 30, posted a 3.84 ERA across 61 innings in Triple-A Round Rock, while Supak, 29, recorded a 3.55 ERA in 12 late-season starts. Both pitchers have strong strikeout potential and provide depth for Texas’ bullpen and rotation options in the future.
Rangers Take Low-Risk, High-Reward Approach
While Cronin will miss the upcoming season, the Rangers are making calculated moves to strengthen organizational depth. With minor league additions like Cronin, Martin, Gray, and Supak, Texas is preparing for a long 2026 campaign, hoping these acquisitions eventually translate into MLB-ready contributions.
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