Rangers Release Chavez and Strickland as Roster Decisions Loom

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers announced Friday that they have released veteran relievers Jesse Chavez and Hunter Strickland from their minor league contracts. Both pitchers are now free agents as the team finalizes its roster ahead of the upcoming season.

The Rangers’ decision comes after both players failed to perform during Spring Training. Chavez, 41, allowed seven runs over 6 2/3 innings, giving up 10 hits and issuing four walks. Strickland, 36, who was signed just nine days prior, made only two appearances, yielding three runs while recording four outs.

Chavez had joined the Rangers in January, hoping to secure a spot in the major league bullpen for the fourth time after previously enjoying success with the Atlanta Braves. Last season, he posted a 3.13 ERA over 63 1/3 innings with the Braves, but his Spring Training performance fell short of expectations.

“It’s tough to see them go,” Rangers manager Bruce Bochy said. “They’ve both been through a lot, but we felt it was necessary to make these moves as we prepare for the season.”

Strickland’s brief stint with the Rangers follows a season spent with the Los Angeles Angels, where he recorded a 3.31 ERA across 73 1/3 innings. Despite solid overall numbers, his below-average strikeout rate contributed to the need for a minor league deal this offseason.

The Rangers presumed both Chavez and Strickland would trigger their opt-out clauses, choosing to release them rather than carry them on the MLB roster. “There are other pitchers we are interested in and we want to keep our options open,” said a source within the organization.

Both pitchers are now available on the open market, where the expectation is other teams may take an interest. Chavez, known for his leadership and experience, has been a valuable asset over his long career, making this his 18th year in the league.

“I still believe I can contribute at the major league level,” Chavez said before his release. “I feel good and I hope to find another opportunity soon.”

As the Rangers continue to refine their roster, they have also optioned outfielder Dustin Harris to Triple-A Round Rock and reassigned pitcher Alejandro Osuna to minor league camp after a notable performance in Spring Training.

“We have a lot of depth, and it’s going to be a competitive year,” Bochy added. “We’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for our pitching staff.”