The Texas Rangers have finalized their decision behind the plate, officially moving on from the idea of signing star free-agent catcher J.T. Realmuto and instead locking in their replacement for the 2026 season. After days of exploring alternatives, Texas has confirmed that they will not pursue Realmuto due to payroll limitations and have instead completed their search for a new backstop.
Realmuto Off the Table
Following the non-tender of Jonah Heim, the Rangers entered the offseason needing a starting catcher. Initially, Realmuto’s name surfaced as a potential dream signing. However, with his market quickly rising, Texas determined they simply couldn’t meet the financial demands for the three-time All-Star.
Team sources revealed that the Rangers’ front office officially stepped away from the Realmuto sweepstakes earlier this week, citing the need to reserve payroll space for bullpen reconstruction and depth upgrades across the roster.
Rangers Lock In Their New Catcher
With Realmuto ruled out, the Rangers pivoted fast — and now the decision is final.
Texas has officially landed Victor Caratini as their new primary catcher for the 2026 season.
Caratini, who spent last season with the Houston Astros, hit .259 with 12 home runs and 46 RBIs across 114 games. Known as a steady defender with reliable contact hitting, he immediately fills the hole left by Heim’s departure.
The Rangers evaluated multiple options, including Danny Jansen, but ultimately chose Caratini for his durability and two-way consistency.
Why Texas Chose Caratini
Team officials confirmed that Caratini’s combination of:
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consistent defensive framing
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ability to work with young and veteran pitchers
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low strikeout rate
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budget-friendly contract demands
made him the ideal fit for their 2026 roster structure.
With Texas also rebuilding their bullpen, the front office emphasized the importance of pairing a new-look pitching staff with a stable, experienced catcher.
Realmuto Will Not Be a Ranger
The team has made it clear: Realmuto was never going to be financially realistic given their offseason priorities. His résumé — .270 career average, 180 home runs, 677 RBIs, 104 steals, plus multiple Gold Gloves — ensured a heavy bidding war Texas had no intention of entering.
He remains one of the most sought-after free agents this winter — just not by the Rangers.
Rangers Have Their Answer Behind the Plate
With Caratini officially in Arlington, the Rangers have solved one of their biggest offseason questions and can now turn their attention to bolstering the bullpen and adding depth around the diamond.
The catcher vacancy is no longer a storyline.
The move has been made. The decision is done.
Texas has its backstop for 2026.
