Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Monday that the Texas Rangers are closing in on a major-league contract with veteran right-hander Chris Paddack, with the signing conditional on a physical.
- If completed, the deal would make the Rangers Paddack’s third organization of 2026 after the Miami Marlins and Cincinnati Reds and would allow him to join the big-league roster immediately.
- Paddack has struggled this season, posting a career-worst 6.96 ERA across 53 innings with elevated strikeout and walk rates that have hurt his effectiveness.
- Texas has an open spot on its 40-man roster after granting first baseman Blaine Crim his release to pursue a KBO deal, a move that would let the club add Paddack quickly if he passes his exam.
- The signing would be a low-cost, short-term bid to shore up a rotation coping with injuries and would give Paddack a chance to rebuild value even though he has not pitched well so far this year.