After exploring free agency, ace Nathan Eovaldi has decided to return to the Texas Rangers. Reports indicate that Eovaldi and the Rangers have agreed to a three-year, $75 million contract.
In 2024, Eovaldi made 29 starts for the Rangers, posting a 12-8 record, a 3.80 ERA, and 166 strikeouts. Although he had a $20 million player option for 2025, he opted out in hopes of securing a more lucrative deal on the open market.
Despite interest from other teams, including the Atlanta Braves, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Mets, Eovaldi chose to remain with the Rangers, citing his familiarity with the organization and the attractive contract offer.
The Rangers’ rotation took a hit this offseason as Eovaldi, future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer, 2024 starts leader Andrew Heaney, reliever Andrew Heaney, and closer Kirby Yates all entered free agency. The team is expected to continue searching for pitching help, with a focus on bolstering the bullpen.
Eovaldi made his MLB debut in 2011 with the Los Angeles Dodgers and has since played for the Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays, and Boston Red Sox before joining the Rangers in 2023. He has two World Series titles and two All-Star appearances to his name, with a career record of 91-81, a 4.07 ERA, and 1,358 strikeouts.
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