Texas Rangers Add Veteran Catcher Kyle Higashioka to Their Roster
The Texas Rangers are making moves this offseason, and their latest addition is sure to turn some heads. On Monday, the Rangers announced they had signed veteran catcher Kyle Higashioka to a two-year contract, with a mutual option for the 2027 season. This signing could be a key piece for a team looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
Higashioka, now 34 years old, spent last season with the San Diego Padres, where he made a significant impact after being acquired in the blockbuster Juan Soto trade with the New York Yankees during the previous offseason. While he was often seen as a backup during his time in New York, Higashioka proved he could shine when given the opportunity in San Diego.
Higashioka’s Career Year in San Diego
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 202 pounds, Higashioka found his groove at the plate in 2024. He smashed a career-high 17 home runs, drove in 45 RBIs, and scored 29 runs. These numbers came in just 84 games and 263 plate appearances, showcasing his ability to deliver power in limited opportunities. For a team like the Padres, who were pushing hard for the postseason, Higashioka’s contributions were invaluable.
Financially, Higashioka was coming off his final year of arbitration eligibility, during which he earned $2.18 million. With his strong performance in 2024, he was widely expected to secure a raise heading into spring training. Now, with the Rangers, he’ll have the chance to continue proving his worth on a new stage.
Defensive Excellence and Leadership Behind the Plate
While Higashioka’s offensive numbers grabbed attention last season, his defensive skills and leadership behind the plate have always been his calling card. During his time with the Yankees, he was often trusted to catch for ace Gerrit Cole, a testament to his ability to handle high-pressure situations and work effectively with elite pitchers.
In San Diego, Higashioka continued to thrive in a star-studded environment. Padres manager Mike Shildt had nothing but praise for the veteran catcher during the team’s postseason run, saying, “He’s been fantastic. He’s done a great job of being an extension of myself. A catcher-manager relationship is important.”
Shildt also emphasized the importance of Higashioka’s connection with the pitching staff, adding, “The most important thing is his relationship with the pitchers. That’s the most important relationship, is making sure he’s synced up with them.” Clearly, Higashioka’s ability to build trust and rapport with pitchers is a skill the Rangers will be eager to utilize.
What This Means for the Rangers
For the Texas Rangers, this signing comes at a pivotal time. After winning the World Series in 2023, the team struggled in 2024, finishing with a 78-84 record and landing in third place in the American League West. Adding a seasoned catcher like Higashioka could help stabilize the team and provide a veteran presence in the clubhouse.
Higashioka’s power at the plate and defensive prowess behind it make him a valuable asset for a team looking to regain its footing. While the Rangers have plenty of work to do to return to championship form, this move signals their commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Rangers signed Kyle Higashioka to a two-year deal with a mutual option for 2027.
- Higashioka hit a career-high 17 home runs in 2024 with the San Diego Padres.
- Known for his defensive skills, Higashioka has a strong track record of working well with pitchers.
- The Rangers are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 season.
As the offseason continues, all eyes will be on the Rangers to see what other moves they make to bolster their roster. For now, the addition of Kyle Higashioka is a step in the right direction for a team eager to return to the top of the baseball world.
Originally Written by: Unknown
