Dane Dunning, a notable pitcher for the Texas Rangers, has been placed on outright waivers, which allows other teams the chance to claim him along with his $2.66 million salary for the upcoming season. This move follows a challenging 2024 season for Dunning, culminating in his demotion to Triple-A.

Since joining the Rangers in 2021 via a trade with the Chicago White Sox, Dunning has made a significant impact by starting 95 games and earning a 4.38 ERA over four seasons. His performance peaked during the 2023 season when he was lauded as the team’s pitcher of the year during their World Series campaign. The upcoming weeks will reveal his fate, as the Rangers can send him to the minors if he remains unclaimed.

In a recent spring training game for the Texas Rangers, pitcher Dane Dunning showcased a dominant performance against the Cleveland Guardians, allowing just one hit over two innings while striking out three, marking a scoreless streak extending to four innings this spring. Dunning's success stems from a rigorous offseason regime, including significant weight loss and improved mechanics, which has restored him to the form that earned him the Rangers' Pitcher of the Year title last season.

Texas manager Bruce Bochy noted that Dunning looks more like the impactful pitcher he was during the previous season, emphasizing the importance of Dunning’s better conditioning and mindset following a challenging 2023. The Rangers’ pitching depth could be a pivotal factor in their continued success as they navigate the competition for a spot in the team's rotation.

Alan Trejo made his mark in Texas Rangers spring training history by being the first player to utilize the Automated Ball Strike (ABS) replay challenge system. In a 5-2 loss to the Kansas City Royals, Trejo challenged a strike call during the eighth inning, but the review confirmed the umpire's call, resulting in a strikeout. Manager Bruce Bochy found the challenge entertaining, noting the quick pace of the review.

The game featured several notable performances, including pitcher Dane Dunning, who showed promise by throwing two scoreless innings. However, Leody Taveras continued to struggle against left-handers, grounding out and flying out in his at-bats. Alejandro Osuna also had a mixed performance, making a base-running mistake but redeeming himself with a sliding catch. As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming season, their ability to utilize the ABS system and address player performances will be crucial.

Dane Dunning, a right-handed pitcher for the Texas Rangers, aims to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season during which he faced multiple challenges, including weight issues, injuries, and mechanical problems. Dunning addressed these concerns during the Rangers' winter caravan, acknowledging that he struggled with his performance and was demoted to Triple-A Round Rock to regain form. After shedding 11 pounds this offseason, he feels rejuvenated and has focused on refining his mechanics.

Despite being named the organization’s Pitcher of the Year in 2023, Dunning's struggles in 2024 led to a career-high 5.31 ERA and a significant reduction in effectiveness. He aims to reclaim his previous success, particularly with his renowned sinker, which was less effective last season. Dunning is determined to help the team, whether by contributing from the bullpen or starting, as he prepares for the upcoming season.