Rangers Roll the Dice on Nabil Crismatt to Bolster Bullpen
The Texas Rangers are making strategic moves to rejuvenate their bullpen, and their latest gamble involves right-hander Nabil Crismatt. Reportedly agreed upon as a minor-league contract, Crismatt’s signing comes with an invitation to Major League camp, a decision first highlighted by El Extrabase’s Daniel Alvarez-Montes.
This is a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for both sides. With over 200 innings pitched in the Majors under his belt, Crismatt is out of options, meaning he must secure a spot on the opening-day roster to avoid being designated for assignment. The upcoming spring training will be crucial for him to demonstrate that his recent struggles do not overshadow the potential he displayed in his best seasons.
Crismatt’s Track Record
The 31-year-old has shown flashes of brilliance in the past. In 2021, he harnessed his change-up and curveball, throwing them a combined 75% of the time. That season, he finished with a 3-1 record and a 3.76 ERA across 45 appearances. With 71 strikeouts against 24 walks in 81.1 innings, Crismatt’s ability to induce a chase rate of 31% placed him in the 80th percentile among his peers, according to Baseball Savant. His metrics were impressive, including a walk rate and hard-hit rate that landed in the 70th percentile or better.
The following year, Crismatt further refined his approach by integrating more four-seam fastballs into his repertoire. This adjustment paid off, as he posted his best season in 2022, recording a 5-2 record with a stellar 2.94 ERA in 50 games. He struck out 65 batters while issuing just 22 walks over 67.1 innings, showcasing a chase rate that jumped to the 83rd percentile and a ground-ball rate that was equally impressive at the 81st percentile.
Recent Struggles and Future Prospects
However, the trajectory of his career took a downturn since that standout season. Crismatt has only made 21 appearances since then, with a 4-3 record and a 4.67 ERA across 54 innings. While his strikeout numbers dipped to 43 and walks increased to 16, a closer look at his Baseball Savant data reveals that his ability to induce swings outside the strike zone with his change-up remained intact. Unfortunately, he simply hasn’t pitched enough to solidify his standing in the league.
As Crismatt joins the Rangers, the organization is hopeful that he can leverage this fresh opportunity to return to form. With the right adjustments and a strong showing in spring training, he could find himself back in the majors, ready to contribute meaningfully to a bullpen in need of revitalization. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal as the Rangers assess whether Crismatt can reclaim the promise he once displayed on the mound.
