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.

Evan Carter, the Texas Rangers' promising young center fielder, has expressed gratitude for the concern surrounding his back issues, stating that he is currently swinging well and ready to reclaim his spot in the lineup. While he disclosed that he has been dealing with chronic inflammation, he prefers to focus on improving his performance against left-handers, where he has struggled historically. Manager Bruce Bochy noted that while the team is optimistic about Carter’s health, they will remain vigilant and need consistent communication from him about any discomfort.

Carter's ability to hit lefties remains a concern, but he acknowledges this is a goal for him and reflects on his time in the minors where he showed potential as a disciplined hitter. With the Rangers looking to maximize Carter’s talent while cautiously managing his health, a platoon strategy against tough left-handed pitchers may be necessary. However, they also have Leody Taveras, who has underperformed against lefties, complicating the decision-making process. Carter’s health takes precedence; if he is fit, his impact on the Rangers could be significant this season.

The Texas Rangers' title defense fell short, yet two players shone in a disappointing season. Corey Seager, ranking 13th in the MLB with a Win Probability Added (WPA) of +3.98, showcased his skills despite a slight dip from the previous year. In 2023, he delivered a stellar .327 batting average, 33 home runs, and 96 RBIs, maintaining his status as a top performer since joining the Rangers in 2022.

Relief pitcher Kirby Yates outperformed even Seager, leading the league with a WPA of +4.43. At age 37, Yates achieved a remarkable 1.17 ERA across 61.2 innings with 33 saves, earning his second All-Star nod. Despite his impressive performance, the Rangers have not re-signed him, opting instead for five new bullpen additions, likely due to his age.

On a less positive note, the Rangers also had two players listed among the bottom 30 in WPA: outfielder Leody Taveras and rookie pitcher Jack Leiter. As the new season looms, the Rangers aspire to increase their representation among the league's top players.

The Texas Rangers and outfielder Leody Taveras have finalized a contract agreement for the 2025 season, valuing at $4.5 million, thus avoiding arbitration. Taveras, entering his second year of arbitration, previously played for $2.55 million and was projected to earn $4.3 million for the upcoming season. His performance in the 2024 season included a batting line of .229/.289/.352, with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs over 151 games, marking a downturn from his impressive contributions during the Rangers’ World Series run in 2023.

The Rangers have not navigated an arbitration hearing since 2000. Currently, catcher Jonah Heim remains the only other arbitration-eligible player on the team, projected to garner $4.8 million. Taveras, who is under contract until 2028, will need to outperform emerging talents like Wyatt Langford and Evan Carter to secure his position for the next season.

The Texas Rangers have successfully avoided arbitration with catcher Jonah Heim and outfielder Leody Taveras for the 2025 season, agreeing to contracts that total just under $10 million. Taveras will receive $4.75 million, while Heim will earn $4.575 million, as confirmed on Thursday. This marks a continued trend for the Rangers, who have not faced arbitration hearings since 2000, highlighting their commitment to reaching agreements with players.

While both players had standout performances during the Rangers' World Series run in 2023, their production dipped significantly in the 2024 season. Taveras, who faced challenges against left-handers, registered a low .624 OPS, while Heim's struggles left him with an even lower OPS, impacting his defensive contributions as well.