December 5, 2025
The Texas Rangers have officially filled their second base vacancy from within the organization, promoting Josh Smith to take over regular duties at the position. The move comes after the Marcus Semien-for-Brandon Nimmo trade created a gap at second base, but the Rangers chose not to pursue outside free agents or trade targets.
Smith, 28, who spent the past few seasons as a versatile utility player, is now the team’s primary second baseman, primarily against right-handed pitching. Over the past two seasons, he has slashed .254/.336/.380 (107 wRC+) with 23 home runs, 53 doubles, 3 triples, and 23 stolen bases, giving the Rangers a reliable bat and defensive presence at the keystone position.
Other internal options like Cody Freeman, Dylan Moore, and Ezequiel Duran remain on the roster, but none have matched Smith’s major league production. Top prospect Sebastian Walcott could eventually transition from shortstop to second base, keeping the position strong for the future.
In addition, the Rangers moved to re-sign reliever Josh Sborz on a minor league deal, adding depth and familiarity to the bullpen after Sborz missed the 2025 season recovering from shoulder surgery.
With Josh Smith stepping in at second base and Sborz returning to bolster the bullpen, the Rangers have secured key internal pieces as they head into the 2026 season.
