The Texas Rangers know exactly what they need to fix. Their entire offseason strategy has focused on rebuilding the bullpen. Now, they have added Jakob Junis to the mix as their latest move in this ongoing transformation.
Rangers Act Quickly to Secure Junis
Texas believes Junis has become a more reliable pitcher after shifting to a bullpen role recently. This convinced the front office to move fast and sign him. The deal is straightforward: one year for $4 million. It will become official once the Rangers adjust their 40-man roster.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic first reported the agreement. A source later confirmed the details to ESPN. Junis is represented by the Wasserman Agency.
Part of a Larger Bullpen Overhaul
This signing is not an isolated event. It is a key piece of a broader initiative to reshape a relief corps that has struggled with consistency. The Rangers' bullpen had trouble holding leads last season. It converted only 37 out of 66 save opportunities in 2025, a major weakness despite a decent 3.62 ERA.
Junis enters a bullpen that remains in flux. Roles are still up for grabs, and there is no definite stability for late-game situations. The Rangers value experience, versatility, and control. They see Junis as a pitcher who can fulfill those needs.
Junis Embraces New Role as Reliever
The Rangers plan to use Jakob Junis exclusively as a reliever. This follows his first full season working out of the bullpen during his nine-year MLB career. The team hopes his recent adaptation to this role makes him a trustworthy option for 2026.
He could serve as an additional seasoned choice for the Rangers next season, providing depth and flexibility.
Other Key Additions to the Rangers' Bullpen
Junis joins several other relievers brought in to revamp the unit. President of baseball operations Chris Young has been active in addressing the team's weaknesses.
- The Rangers signed Alexis Díaz to a one-year contract. He is currently the likely candidate to close games, though his performance in 2025 was inconsistent.
- They re-signed veteran Chris Martin to another one-year deal. Martin is expected to handle high-leverage setup situations, offering experience but not necessarily as a primary closer.
- Other additions include Tyler Alexander and Carter Baumler, acquired via trade and the Rule 5 draft.
- The team also picked up Zak Kent from St. Louis and signed Patrick Murphy to minor-league contracts.
Returning Faces and Ongoing Search
Left-hander Robert Garcia is back after leading the team with nine saves in 2025. However, he was demoted from the closer role midseason due to ups and downs. He remains a potential option alongside Martin and Díaz.
The Rangers are still exploring more relief options before spring training begins. The bullpen has seen significant turnover over the past two years, and the front office is not done yet.
While Díaz is slated for the closer role and Martin for setup duty, nothing is guaranteed. Díaz had a tough 2025, moving between teams and struggling to recapture his form. Martin provides a reliable bridge but is not a traditional shutdown closer.
The goal is clear: build a bullpen that can consistently protect leads and finish games. The signing of Jakob Junis is another step in that direction for the Texas Rangers.
