The MLB offseason always brings surprises, but this year’s non-tender deadline really sent shockwaves through baseball. High-profile, arbitration-eligible players hit free agency as teams weighed cost against performance.
Among the most jaw-dropping moves? The Texas Rangers cut ties with ALCS MVP Adolis GarcÃa and other core players from their championship roster. Budget limits, injuries, and slipping numbers all played a part, and now the free-agent market looks a whole lot different.
Texas Rangers’ Stunning Roster Moves
The defending champs turned heads by letting go of three major contributors: Adolis GarcÃa, catcher Jonah Heim, and reliever Josh Sborz. Each played a big role in Texas’ title run, so their exits caught plenty off guard.
Adolis GarcÃa’s Sudden Exit
GarcÃa was set to earn about $12 million in arbitration, but his 2025 offensive slump hurt his case. Texas decided they’d rather have payroll flexibility than keep a fan favorite, even one with clutch postseason moments.
GarcÃa now joins a crowded free-agent pool, and his defense will make him a tempting option for teams. Honestly, it’s wild to see him go so soon after that October magic.
Rangers Also Lose Key Support Players
Jonah Heim, steady behind the plate, and Josh Sborz, a solid bullpen arm, are also out. Both should attract interest this winter as teams look for experienced, reliable pieces.
The Rangers’ willingness to move on from proven talent hints at a bold new direction. Maybe they’re gearing up for something big, or maybe it’s just business.
Other Notable Non-Tender Decisions
Texas made the biggest splash, but plenty of other clubs made moves that’ll reshape their rosters for 2026.
Boston Red Sox Cut Nathaniel Lowe
The Red Sox let go of Nathaniel Lowe, deciding his projected $13 million salary didn’t match his output. Lowe played solid first base and brought some pop, but Boston’s clearly looking for more offense per dollar.
With his glove, Lowe won’t be jobless for long. Someone’s bound to snap him up.
Atlanta Releases Former Cy Young Finalist Alek Manoah
Atlanta released Alek Manoah, showing how fast things change in baseball. He went from Cy Young contender to injury-plagued in a hurry.
He was set for a $2 million payday, but health questions forced Atlanta’s hand. If Manoah bounces back, he could be a steal for the right team.
Tampa Bay Rays Say Goodbye to Slugger Christopher Morel
The Rays, always tinkering, cut Christopher Morel despite his power. Defensive struggles and a $3 million projection made him expendable in Tampa’s eyes.
Look for him on a club that needs offense, maybe as a DH. He’s got pop, just not the glove.
Dodgers Part Ways with Evan Phillips
The Dodgers made a tough call by non-tendering Evan Phillips, a bullpen mainstay. Phillips is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery and will miss most of 2026.
President Andrew Friedman said he’d like to bring Phillips back on a cheaper, two-year deal after he’s healthy. It’s a balancing act—injury timelines versus payroll.
League-Wide Impact and Strategy
Elsewhere, the Orioles, Yankees, Cardinals, Mariners, and several others made similar moves. Veterans and arbitration-eligible players with big salary projections got the axe if teams felt their value didn’t match the cost.
- Teams are cutting popular players to keep payrolls flexible.
- Injury history is front and center in these decisions.
- Declining offense can erase defensive value in a hurry.
- Younger, cheaper players are edging out pricier veterans.
What Comes Next
With so many capable players suddenly available, the free-agent market could heat up fast. Clubs looking for depth, leadership, or playoff experience suddenly have a bunch of options, and they don’t have to give up a pile of prospects to get them.
For fans, the non-tender deadline is a pretty blunt reminder that baseball’s a business first, a game second. Sentiment usually takes a back seat when budgets are on the line.
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Here is the source article for this story: MLB free agency: Adolis Garcia, Jonah Heim, more players cut at non-tender deadline
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