Rangers Face Tax Dilemma in Helsley, Bednar Pursuit

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Texas faces a financial constraint that complicates the decision. The Rangers’ estimated luxury‑tax payroll is $234.9 million, which is creeping toward the $241 million threshold. If they exceed it, they’ll be hit with a 50 percent surtax as third-time offenders.

Rosenthal writes:

“Something to watch with the surging Texas Rangers is whether they are willing to go over the luxury‑tax threshold for the third consecutive season.” He adds, “If ownership gives the front office the flexibility to exceed the threshold, the Rangers might as well go significantly past the number. It would make little sense to end the season, say, $1 million over.”

Both David Bednar and Ryan Helsley fit the high-leverage profile the Rangers covet. Bednar, the Pirates’ two-time All-Star, boasts a 2.10 ERA, 16 saves, 1.05 WHIP, and 51 strikeouts across 37 innings. Helsley, St. Louis’ closer, has turned in a 2.36 ERA, converting 28 of 30 save chances, with an 11.8 K/9.

Though the bullpen numbers are strong, Monday’s loss showed that depth and late-inning reliability remain concerns. The question isn’t whether the Rangers should add, but whether they can afford to add, both in prospects and in dollars.

Clearing payroll via a move like trading Adolis García (owing about $3 million) is possible, but Rosenthal warns it may be “self‑defeating” for a team chasing a postseason spot. García has rebounded in recent months and remains a defensive anchor and productive bat.

With the trade deadline fast approaching, Texas walks a tightrope. Helsley, Bednar, or neither, may come down to how much the front office is willing to risk chasing the postseason.