Three Intriguing Free Agents Hit Market After MLB Non-Tender Deadline

The Texas Rangers, just two years out from their World Series win, have taken a surprising turn as they shape their roster ahead of Major League Baseball’s non-tender deadline. They used to splash cash and chase veteran talent, but now, the franchise is pruning payroll and letting go of some familiar faces in favor of youth, flexibility, and saving some money.

In a year where the non-tender class doesn’t have much star power, Texas has still managed to stand out. They’ve released two core contributors—a move that could reset expectations and maybe even hint at a bigger change behind the scenes.

Texas Rangers’ Changing Roster Strategy

Two seasons after their championship, the Rangers aren’t relying on a big payroll anymore. They’ve decided to cut ties with arbitration-eligible players before those salaries balloon, using MLB’s non-tender deadline to release guys without owing future money.

This year’s marketplace feels pretty quiet compared to recent ones. We’re not seeing headline names like Cody Bellinger from 2022; instead, it’s a mix of solid but less flashy players. In that low-key context, Texas chose to move on from two key guys: outfielder Adolis García and catcher Jonah Heim.

Adolis García: From Gold Glove to the Waiver Wire

Adolis García used to be the heart of the Rangers’ lineup and snagged a Gold Glove in right field in 2023. He still has raw power and a cannon for an arm, but his strikeout rate has jumped and his production slipped.

The Rangers tried to trade García before the deadline, but nobody bit at their price. Cutting him means losing a proven run producer, but it also frees up payroll. For other teams, he’s a tempting low-cost power bat with real defensive chops—a combo you don’t see every day, especially now that strong-armed, home-run-hitting outfielders are getting rare.

Jonah Heim: Defensive Ace, Offensive Regression

Jonah Heim’s non-tender probably surprised more people than García’s. Heim made the All-Star team, won a Gold Glove in 2023, and was known for his pitch-framing, game management, and steady hand with pitchers.

But his bat cooled off, and his offensive numbers took a hit. Like García, Heim was on the trade block, but nothing came together. Now, another team can swoop in for a defensively strong, experienced catcher without paying top dollar. Catchers like him are hard to find, so you’d think contenders or teams with young pitchers might jump at the chance.

Impact Beyond Arlington

The Rangers’ decisions ripple out across the league, especially at positions where depth is thin.

Dodgers Part Ways with Reliever Evan Phillips

The Los Angeles Dodgers made a move of their own, non-tendering reliever Evan Phillips. He’s coming back from Tommy John surgery after a few setbacks, so he’ll miss a big chunk of the season. Still, Phillips has a track record as a late-inning weapon, and teams needing bullpen help might see him as worth the risk by midyear.

The Dodgers might even bring him back on a cheap, incentive-heavy deal. His case really shows how the non-tender deadline lets teams cut costs now and maybe circle back later, depending on health, performance, and whatever holes pop up on the roster.

What This Means for the 2025 Season

For the Texas Rangers, releasing García and Heim isn’t just about payroll. They’re also trying to reshape the team’s identity.

By bringing in younger, cheaper players, they open up new options—financially and on the field. This could keep the roster flexible enough to compete, while building a foundation for the future.

• Texas looks ready to focus on youth and cost efficiency now.
• Adolis García’s power and strong arm could make him a steal for another team.
• Jonah Heim’s defense might draw attention from clubs this offseason.
• The non-tender market isn’t as deep as it used to be, but there are still some interesting fits.
• Dodgers’ Evan Phillips might end up as a bullpen boost for a contender midseason.

The 2024-2025 offseason could send aftershocks through the MLB. Roster-building never really sits still, does it?

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Here is the source article for this story: After MLB’s non-tender deadline, three intriguing new names on free-agent market