The Texas Rangers have made a bold and strategic move to reinforce their bullpen, securing multiple under-the-radar arms in deals totaling $32 million. With the 2025 season heating up, these additions could be the key to another deep playoff run.
Texas struggled with bullpen consistency throughout 2024, finishing 26th in MLB with a 4.41 ERA. Determined to shore up that weakness, the front office moved quickly this offseason, targeting a blend of veteran reliability and high-upside potential.
Key Signings Powering the Bullpen Rebuild
Among the most notable additions is Chris Martin, a familiar face returning to Arlington. The 38-year-old right-hander signed a one-year, $5.5 million deal, bringing with him a track record of elite control and postseason experience. Martin posted a 3.45 ERA over 44.1 innings with the Boston Red Sox in 2024 and is expected to slot into a high-leverage role.
Joining him is left-hander Hoby Milner, who inked a one-year, $2.5 million contract. Milner brings a deceptive sidearm delivery and has the tools to neutralize left-handed hitters. While he finished 2024 with a 4.73 ERA, the Rangers see upside in his advanced metrics and believe he can thrive in a more defined role.
In total, the bullpen upgrades—factoring in multiple new contracts, arbitration buys, and trade-related salary commitments—amount to approximately $32 million.
Additional Depth with Upside
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Jacob Webb: Signed after a breakout year with the Orioles (3.02 ERA, 56.2 IP in 2024), Webb is expected to compete for setup or 7th-inning duties.
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Robert Garcia: Acquired via trade, Garcia adds a left-handed option with strong strikeout numbers and a deceptive arm slot.
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Shawn Armstrong: Another veteran presence with experience in both middle and late innings, Armstrong adds flexibility and stability.
Bochy’s Blueprint for Success
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy emphasized the importance of a deep bullpen during spring training, citing the role relief arms played in the team’s 2023 World Series title run.
“Bullpens win championships,” Bochy said. “With the group we’ve assembled, we’ve got weapons from both sides of the mound who can get big outs late. We’re built to compete deep into games—and deep into October.”
The Bigger Picture
The Rangers’ rotation, even with injuries to Jacob deGrom and Max Scherzer, remains one of the strongest in the AL. But these bullpen signings reflect a clear shift in strategy: finish games with confidence.
With Martin’s control, Milner’s deception, Webb’s efficiency, and the depth provided by Garcia and Armstrong, Texas now boasts one of the most improved bullpens in baseball.
As the season unfolds, the Rangers’ revamped relief corps could be the difference-maker in tight division battles and postseason showdowns. And at $32 million, they may have just bought themselves October insurance.
