The offseason hot stove is officially heating up as several key veterans make their decisions regarding future contracts. In a notable roster shakeup, three prominent players from the Texas Rangers have decided to test the open market.
This group of departing talent includes a veteran designated hitter, a reliable backup catcher, and an experienced right-handed relief pitcher. Front offices across the league are already preparing to court these seasoned contributors as free agency gets underway.
The Heavy Hitter Hits the Market
Joc Pederson Declines Option
Designated hitter Joc Pederson has officially declined his $18 million mutual option with no buyout attached. This move concludes a two-year, $37 million commitment that brought plenty of left-handed power to the middle of the lineup.
The 34-year-old two-time All-Star finished the past campaign batting .235 with 26 home runs and 53 RBIs across 136 games. Unfortunately, his productive season ended prematurely on September 12 after he suffered a fractured left wrist from being hit by a pitch.
General managers seeking proven postseason experience and raw power will undoubtedly monitor Pederson’s recovery closely this winter. Despite the unfortunate late-season injury, his ability to change a game with one swing remains a highly coveted commodity.
Catching and Bullpen Depth Shifts
Kyle Higashioka and Jakob Junis Seek New Homes
Veteran catcher Kyle Higashioka has also declined his $7 million option, opting instead to collect a $1 million buyout. This wraps up a two-year, $13.5 million stint where he provided crucial leadership behind the plate.
During the past season, the 36-year-old backstop hit .218 with seven homers and 18 RBIs in 56 games. He missed the remainder of the year due to a troublesome right flexor strain that sidelined him down the stretch.
Right-hander Jakob Junis rounded out the trio by turning down his $5 million option while securing a $1.25 million buyout. The 34-year-old reliever finished the year with a 1-3 record and a solid 3.64 ERA across 52 relief appearances.
Junis battled various hip and adductor injuries throughout the grueling 162-game schedule but still managed to log important innings. Teams looking for affordable, multi-inning bullpen depth will likely express strong interest in his services.
Offseason Outlook and Market Impact
What Lies Ahead for the Franchise
Losing three veterans to free agency leaves notable voids in power hitting, catching depth, and bullpen stability for the front office to address. Evaluating internal prospects and scouring the trade market will be top priorities in the coming weeks.
Fans looking for more analysis can check out comprehensive Baseball News updates and player profiles. The winter meetings promise plenty of movement as these departing players find new landing spots.
Ultimately, roster turnover is an inevitable part of the modern game as clubs balance financial flexibility with veteran presence. It will be fascinating to see where Pederson, Higashioka, and Junis ultimately sign for the upcoming campaign.
Here is the source article for this story: Rangers’ Joc Pederson, Kyle Higashioka and Jakob Junis decline mutual options
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Stadium Guides
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s