Pitcher Tyler Mahle. Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports

The defending champions continue to sharpen their swords.

The Texas Rangers announced on Thursday that they have signed veteran right-hander Tyler Mahle in free agency. Mahle is getting a two-year deal from the team.

The 29-year-old spent last year with the Minnesota Twins but made just five starts before Tommy John surgery ended his 2023 campaign in May. Prior to his stint with the Twins, Mahle was a standout for the Cincinnati Reds, striking out 210 batters during the 2021 season.

Mahle likely won’t be ready to pitch until the middle part of next season. But he will give the Rangers another depth piece in their rotation with Jordan Montgomery currently a free agent and Jacob deGrom recovering from a Tommy John procedure of his own. Texas also did some work to upgrade their bullpen in recent days.

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