Key Highlights
- The Texas Rangers still have time to acquire key players before spring training in 2026.
- Josh Sborz and Luis Arraez are mentioned as potential free agents who could strengthen the bullpen and lineup.
- Luis Rengifo is suggested as an infield utility player, potentially filling multiple positions for the team.
Still Time to Upgrade: Free Agency Opportunities for the Texas Rangers
The 2026 baseball season is just around the corner, and the Texas Rangers are not sitting idle. With a roster still in need of upgrades, General Manager Jeff Speicher has identified three key players that could bolster the team’s offensive and defensive capabilities.
A Closer to Call Upon: Josh Sborz
One glaring hole in the Rangers’ bullpen is the closer role. The man who delivered the organization’s first World Series title as a reliever, Josh Sborz, remains available. His experience in the high-pressure situations of closing games is invaluable, especially with the team seeking to solidify their late-game defense.
Despite being non-tendered at the end of 2025, Sborz has yet to sign with another team.
While his shoulder injury from last season casts a shadow over his current form, bringing him back could provide immediate relief for the bullpen. However, his performance in rehab and on the mound will be crucial in determining whether the Rangers should reconsider their previous decision.
Slap Hitter Luis Arraez
For the top of the lineup, the Rangers need a player who can get on base consistently. Luis Arraez, a three-time batting average champion from Venezuela, could fit this role perfectly. His ability to maintain a high on-base percentage would provide much-needed support for the team’s overall offensive strategy.
Arraez played in San Diego for two seasons and demonstrated his worth with an on-base percentage of .363.
With his track record, Arraez could be a valuable asset as a corner infielder, allowing him to get on base more frequently than the true outcome at-bats that plagued the team last year. His proven skills in front of players like Corey Seager and Wyatt Langford would make their offensive contributions even more impactful.
Utility Player Luis Rengifo
Luis Rengifo, currently with the LA Angels, has played multiple positions since entering the league in 2019. His versatility could be a luxury for the Rangers, who may be looking to make moves that involve roster flexibility. If Josh Smith were to move permanently to second base following the Marcus Semien trade, Rengifo’s utility skills would come into play.
Rengifo has played with players like Cody Freeman, Mike Helman, and Sam Haggerty, indicating his ability to fill in all over the infield as well as spot-start in the outfield.
At a price tag of $5.95 million last season, he is within the Rangers’ budget and would add valuable depth to their roster.
While these moves are not guarantees, they represent viable options for the Rangers to consider as they prepare for spring training. The team must balance their pursuit of talent with prudent financial management, ensuring that any signings or trades align with their long-term goals in 2026.