The Texas Rangers are on the hunt for a closer as they prepare for the upcoming season, keen to re-establish their reputation following a disappointing 2024 campaign where they failed to reach the playoffs and lost their World Series title. Revamping their bullpen has been a priority, but they currently lack a definitive option to finish games.

Recently, discussions have surfaced about former Rangers ace Max Scherzer potentially transitioning to a closer role. However, insider Jon Morosi reported that Scherzer is not considering this shift, as his focus remains on pitching as a starter in 2025. Despite being 40 and recovering from injury, Scherzer’s preference indicates he is not ready to abandon his starting role.

As fantasy baseball enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 season, early preparation is crucial. Engaging in offseason mock drafts and monitoring player trends can help set the market. This article highlights potential bust candidates for the upcoming season, emphasizing the importance of understanding player performance and draft position.

Corey Seager of the Texas Rangers, despite impressive stats, raises concerns due to his lack of stolen bases and declining home run numbers. Similarly, Michael Harris II from the Atlanta Braves may not meet the high expectations surrounding him. Emmanuel Clase of the Cleveland Guardians also faces scrutiny as the first closer taken in drafts, with questions about his sustainability.

In an impressive debut season, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes captured the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2024, a remarkable achievement that exceeded the high expectations placed upon him. Skenes finished the season with an impressive 1.96 ERA, marking him as a standout performer and establishing him as a key player for the Pirates as they aim for a competitive run in the National League Central division.

His performance included an 11-3 record over 23 starts and a franchise-record 170 strikeouts in just 133 innings pitched. While his ERA does not officially qualify as a record due to insufficient innings, it positions him among the elite rookie pitchers in MLB history. Analyst David Schoenfield highlighted Skenes' 5.9 WAR, the highest for a rookie pitcher since Michael Soroka in 2019, drawing comparisons to the legendary José Fernández's rookie season.

Looking ahead to 2025, Skenes is expected to be a leading candidate for the NL Cy Young Award, which would make him the first Pirates pitcher to win the accolade since Doug Drabek in 1992. With no limitations anticipated for the upcoming season, Skenes is poised to build on his rookie success, and if he can maintain his performance, he could lead the Pirates to their first playoff appearance since 2015.

As he prepares for the new season, questions linger about his potential innings pitched and overall performance. If he can surpass his previous season's metrics, he could achieve an extraordinary 8.5 WAR, a feat not accomplished by any starter since 2018. The excitement surrounding Skenes and the Pirates is palpable as they prepare for what could be a historic season.

Nathan Eovaldi has secured a three-year, $75 million contract with the Texas Rangers, solidifying his place in their starting rotation. Eovaldi, who played a crucial role in the Rangers' 2023 World Series victory, declined a player option for 2025 but was sought after by the team to remain in Texas.

The deal includes a signing bonus and substantial salaries over the next few years, alongside a full no-trade provision. Eovaldi's performance in the postseason was standout, contributing significantly to the Rangers' success.

Nathan Eovaldi has signed a three-year contract worth $75 million with the Texas Rangers, solidifying his place in the starting rotation. The right-hander was instrumental in the Rangers' World Series victory in 2023 and was a key target for the team this offseason.

After declining a $20 million player option, Eovaldi's new deal comes after a successful postseason where he recorded a 2.95 ERA. He will join Jacob deGrom in the rotation as the Rangers look to improve after missing the playoffs last year.