The Texas Rangers made a surprising roster decision just days after bringing Jonah Bride back to the major leagues.
Before their game against the Los Angeles Angels, Texas designated the veteran infielder for assignment, effectively cutting ties with a player it had only recently promoted from Triple-A Round Rock.
The move came as the Rangers selected outfielder Jarred Kelenic to the major league roster, creating a need for a corresponding roster spot.
Bride’s departure is especially abrupt because the Rangers had selected his contract on Aug. 9, giving him another opportunity in the majors after spending much of the season with Round Rock.
He had been one of the Express’ more productive hitters, with team notes showing a .266 batting average, .391 on-base percentage, 32 RBIs and a .796 OPS through late May.
His minor-league production helped earn him the call-up, but the Rangers ultimately viewed the roster as better served by adding another outfield option.
The timing also makes the move stand out because Bride barely had an opportunity to establish himself in Texas.
According to reports, he started two games after his promotion and went 1-for-5 at the plate before being designated for assignment.
His return to the majors therefore lasted only a matter of days, illustrating how quickly roster decisions can change for a club trying to stay in contention.
The Rangers entered their Aug. 11 matchup with the Angels at 60-59 and second in the American League West, making every roster spot increasingly important down the stretch.
For Bride, the designation does not necessarily mean his time with the Rangers organization is immediately over.
Texas can trade him, place him on waivers, or potentially retain him if he clears waivers, depending on how the situation develops.
Still, the decision is a tough one for a player who had just earned his way back to the majors.
The Rangers are betting that Kelenic can provide a more valuable offensive and roster fit at this stage of the season, while Bride now faces uncertainty only days after getting another MLB opportunity.
