Travis Jankowski is headed back to Arlington.
The Texas Rangers and Jankowski agreed to terms on a one-year deal that will bring him back to Globe Life Field for the 2024 season. The move comes less than 48 hours after general manager Chris Young traded away outfielder J.P. Martinez in exchange for relief pitcher Tyler Owens from the Atlanta Braves.
Jankowski, 32, joined the Rangers last season on a minor-league deal. He made the active roster and primarily served as part of the outfield platoon depth and late-inning defensive replacement along with Robbie Grossman.
In 107 games, Jankowski hit 263/.357/.332 with a home run, 30 RBI, a .689 OPS and a 1.4 WAR. He also was 19 of 20 on stolen base attempts.
Jankowski came in clutch during the World Series in place of the injured Adolis García for Games 4 and 5 of the World Series, posting an RBI and a superb catch in right field. His efforts helped the Rangers secure their first title over the Arizona Diamondbacks in five games.
Known for his defensive prowess and speed, Jankowkski should maintain the same role. He'll spruce up the offense in the No. 9 hole trying to get on a base to jumpstart the lineup while offering value late in games in the outfield.
How many games Jankowski plays remains a mystery. The Rangers have Evan Carter making his full-season rookie debut in left field and could also call up No. 4 pick Wyatt Langford. Drafted out of Florida last season, Langford tore up the minors, moving up from rookie ball to Triple-A before the season's conclusion.
With a strong spring training, Langford could join the squad on the Opening Day roster in some form of designated hitter/outfield rotation with Carter, García and center fielder Leody Taveras. Jankowski, meanwhile, would likely remain a quality depth piece with the ability to swipe bags late in the games in hopes of building on a lead.
Jankowski's return to Arlington means Young will need to make another move to the 40-man roster, which is expected to come within the coming days. Earlier this week, Young dealt Martinez to Atlanta to make room for reliever David Robertson, who signed a one-year deal reportedly worth $11-12 million.
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