Finances could thwart Rangers' trade-deadline plans

The Texas Rangers have managed to claw their way back from a disappointing start to the season to the top of the AL West.

While that surge should position the Rangers to be buyers ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline, that may be easier said than done. Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News reported that although the Rangers would like to improve their bullpen, they may not have the flexibility to add additional payroll to the roster.

Those financial concerns were not always the case. The Rangers payroll reached a high point of approximately $225 million in 2024 as they spent heavily to add shortstop Corey Seager, second baseman Marcus Semien and pitcher Jacob deGrom. 

Texas Rangers may not have resources to fill holes in roster

However, the Rangers limited their spending this offseason, working the trade market and the middle tier of free agency to supplement their roster. Catcher Danny Jansen and pitchers Jacob Junis, Jordan Montgomery and Jalen Beeks signed relatively inexpensive contracts. Outfielder Brandon Nimmo and pitcher MacKenzie Gore came to Texas via trade. 

That reluctance to spend could make a significant impact upon the Rangers plans ahead of the trade deadline. They could use help in the bullpen, rotation depth and an upgrade at catcher as Jansen may require elbow surgery.

In theory, the Rangers should have some room to add to their payroll. Even if that is the case, they may need to shop for relatively inexpensive options, such as Marlins reliever Anthony Bender or catcher Joey Bart. It could be a relatively quiet trade deadline in Arlington, although the Rangers have several holes to fill.