Texas Rangers Extend Spring Training Invite to Declan Cronin Despite Surgery Setback
Amid the whirlwind of the Texas Rangers’ recent Rule 5 draft maneuvers, a noteworthy development emerged: the team extended non-roster invitations to spring training, including one to Declan Cronin, a pitcher with ties to new manager Skip Schumaker. Alongside him, three other players received invitations — all of whom are already part of the Rangers’ organization. This group includes shortstop Richie Martin, a former first-round pick of the Oakland Athletics, as well as pitchers Peyton Gray and Trey Supak. However, it’s Cronin’s situation that stands out due to his Major League experience, albeit with a significant caveat — he is projected to miss the entire 2026 season following Tommy John surgery earlier this year.
An Approach Similar to Tyler Mahle
The Rangers are employing a strategy reminiscent of their handling of pitcher Tyler Mahle. Prior to the 2024 season, Mahle was signed on a two-year deal with deferred payments, knowing he would be sidelined for most of 2024 as he recuperated from similar surgical procedures. Cronin, who signed with Texas on October 7, has been assigned to Triple-A Round Rock, but his timeline is uncertain. With spring training set to commence in Surprise, Arizona, he will only be a few months post-surgery, leaving questions about his level of participation.
A Rocky Path to Recovery
Cronin’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. Selected in the 36th round by the Chicago White Sox in 2019, he made his MLB debut with the team in 2023. His stint, however, was brief and challenging; he finished with an 0-1 record and a 9.00 ERA over nine games. The White Sox designated him for assignment in December 2023, paving the way for a move to Houston in January 2024, only to be DFA’d shortly thereafter. He found a new home with the Miami Marlins, where Schumaker was managing at the time.
Promoted to the Major League roster on April 17, 2024, Cronin showcased his potential with 56 appearances, recording a 3-4 record and a 4.35 ERA. He tallied eight holds but missed his only save opportunity. His performance included 70.1 innings pitched, where he struck out 72 batters against 25 walks, though opponents hit .274 against him. Unfortunately, he ended the season with a setback, sidelined by left knee patellar tendonitis.
Injuries and a New Opportunity
The previous season was marred by injury for Cronin, who started on the injured list with a left hip strain, resulting in a full season with Triple-A Jacksonville. He achieved a 1-0 record with a 4.63 ERA over 23 games, including three starts, and managed six holds. However, his promising trajectory was interrupted by the injury that necessitated his recent surgery, leading to his release by the Marlins on September 6.
Typically, the Rangers announce all non-roster invitees in the lead-up to spring training, with members of the 40-man roster automatically included. Cronin’s situation serves as a testament to the organization’s willingness to invest in talent with potential, even amid significant recovery challenges. As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming spring, all eyes will be on how Cronin’s rehabilitation progresses and what role he may play in the future.
