The Texas Rangers have had a disappointing season. After winning their first World Series title last October, they've fallen on hard times and now find themselves seven games below .500 at 72-79.
To make matters worse, they may have some holes to fill in their starting rotation this coming offseason. Nathan Eovaldi as expected to opt out of his contract and Andrew Heaney is also a free agent.
This could potentially lead them to target somebody like right-hander Michael Wacha, who is also expected to opt out.
"Very quietly, Wacha has been outstanding for the upstart Royals," Mike Axisa wrote. "He has a $16 million player option for next season. Even at age 33, it seems likely Wacha will decline the option and go back into free agency, where a 2-3-year contract could be waiting."
Wacha would be an interesting fit with the Rangers. He is a native of Texas, having pitched at Texas A&M during his college days. But he would also bring a solid veteran presence to a team that will be fighting to bounce back into contention in 2025.
The 33-year-old could be the perfect candidate to be a No. 2 starter behind a healthy Jacob deGrom, especially if Eovaldi ultimately leaves. Texas will need certainty in its rotation, and Wacha can give them that.
He can be counted on for quality innings as a middle-of-the-rotation starter. His market will be competitive, but he shouldn't be too expensive, meaning that the Rangers should be able to afford him, even in the midst of the uncertainty with the regional Bally Sports networks.
We'll see if the Rangers decide to target the right-hander.
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