The Texas Rangers have officially released right-hander Gerson Garabito, as noted in the team’s transaction log. According to Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News, Garabito is set to continue his career in South Korea, where he will join an unspecified KBO League team.
Garabito, a 12-year professional veteran, spent time in the Royals and Giants organizations between 2013 and 2021. After a brief hiatus from affiliated baseball, he signed a minor league deal with the Rangers before the 2024 season. That led to his MLB debut in 2023, during which he pitched in 18 games for Texas. He added three more appearances this year, finishing with a 5.77 ERA over 34 1/3 innings, alongside a 19.2% strikeout rate and 8.3% walk rate.
While Garabito did start two games during his time with Texas, he primarily served in long relief roles. However, in the minors, he has largely been used as a starter. This season in Triple-A, he started all 10 of his games but struggled, posting an 8.53 ERA across 31 2/3 innings. His move to the KBO likely offers him a chance to re-establish himself in a starting role, which could open doors for future opportunities either in the majors or abroad.
Given that Garabito no longer appeared to be part of Texas’ long-term plans, his release allows him to pursue a fresh opportunity overseas without costing the team. As Grant points out, his departure also frees up a spot on the Rangers’ 40-man roster, potentially signaling another roster move soon. One possibility could be the promotion of Dane Dunning from Triple-A, as the injury-hit rotation continues to require reinforcements.
