Texas Rangers aim to reduce payroll: Are Seager and deGrom on the move?
The Texas Rangers have expressed a clear intention to trim their payroll this offseason, but the specifics of that plan remain uncertain. The team has significant financial commitments tied up in established veterans like Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Jacob deGrom. According to Spotrac, the Rangers currently project a veteran payroll of approximately $149.7 million distributed among six players. When factoring in arbitration and pre-arbitration players, the total payroll could rise to around $191.9 million.
Leadership’s Vision for a Younger Roster
Chris Young, the Rangers’ president of baseball operations, has not disclosed particular details regarding the upcoming roster changes. However, he did emphasize that the payroll will decrease and that the team will shift towards a younger lineup. This strategy raises questions about the potential trade of some high-profile veterans, which could reshape the team’s future.
During the recent MLB general managers meeting in Las Vegas, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News recalled a time when the Rangers successfully slashed payroll significantly. This historical context could provide insight into the team’s current direction as it embarks on this offseason.
A Look Back at the Rangers’ Recent Payroll History
The Rangers have been gradually increasing their payroll over the past few seasons. However, a notable reduction occurred in 2021. Initially, the team had planned a payroll of $171 million for the 2020 season, though it ultimately settled at $144.1 million due to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Rangers ended that season carrying considerable “dead money” from contracts that were no longer contributing to the roster.
In 2021, the Rangers made significant moves to reduce their financial obligations. Key players such as Shin-Soo Choo, who earned $18.5 million, and Corey Kluber, who made $17.5 million before his departure, contributed to the team’s heavy payroll. Choo left as a free agent and Andrus was traded, while Kluber signed with the New York Yankees. Furthermore, the Rangers dealt pitcher Lance Lynn and Kyle Gibson, collectively shedding $71 million from their payroll.
By the end of that year, the highest-paid player on the roster was Jordan Lyles, earning just $8 million, which highlighted the team’s financial reset. The Rangers had only five players making over $1 million at the season’s conclusion, and their active tax rate was significantly lower at $24 million, with $103 million in tax space.
Looking Ahead: Will Major Changes Happen?
As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming offseason, the question remains: will they implement similar cuts this time around? The recent history of financial restructuring indicates a willingness to make bold moves, but the extent of those changes is still under wraps. Following their significant investments in Seager, Semien, and deGrom—contracts totaling nearly $700 million—fans and analysts alike are left wondering if these star players could be on the trading block as the organization looks to balance its books while building for the future.
