The Texas Rangers are expected to take a hard look at free-agent catcher J.T. Realmuto as they search for a major upgrade behind the plate, sources told ESPN.
Texas moved on from Jonah Heim last week and still has veteran Kyle Higashioka under contract through 2026, but team officials don’t view the 36-year-old as a full-time solution. After logging a career-high workload last season and fading down the stretch, Higashioka is projected for more of a timeshare role.
That’s where Realmuto comes in. Widely considered the best catcher available this winter, the three-time All-Star is drawing interest from multiple clubs, including the Phillies—who want him back—and the Red Sox. The Rangers, though, have a clear need and the payroll flexibility to stay in the mix.
Texas has roughly $169 million committed for 2026 following the Marcus Semien–Brandon Nimmo trade, well below last year’s figure. President of baseball operations Chris Young has already told players the team is not rebuilding and intends to contend next season.
While the market includes other options—Victor Caratini, Danny Jansen, Gary Sánchez, and former Ranger Mitch Garver—none offer Realmuto’s two-way impact. Trade possibilities exist, but teams like the Twins, Cardinals, Royals, and White Sox are in no rush to move their young catchers.
For Texas, adding Realmuto would stabilize a thin catching group and reinforce the front office’s message: the Rangers still plan to compete in 2026.
