The Texas Rangers have actually formally positioned outfielder Leody Taveras on straight-out waivers, as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. This tactical relocation enables Taveras to continue having fun with the Rangers till he is declared by another group, which definitely separates the “outright waiver” procedure from a more basic classification for project. If another group claims Taveras, they would handle the rest of his agreement, that includes around $3.8 million left of an overall of $4.75 million for the 2025 season. This circumstance provides a unique chance for both Taveras and the Rangers, as the characteristics of the waiver claim might substantially affect his future in Major League Baseball.

Entering the existing season, Taveras has actually built up 3 years and 124 days of authorities Major League Baseball service time, a crucial element affecting his waiver status. Given that he has actually gone beyond 3 years of service time, if he clears waivers, he has the choice to decline a straight-out project to Triple-A and rather select totally free firm. However, because he has actually not yet reached 5 years of MLB service time, this option would suggest compromising his staying wage of $3.8 million. This complex circumstance leaves Taveras with a considerable choice to make, although if another group declares him, it may get rid of the requirement for him to make that option entirely.

The public protective metrics surrounding Taveras’ efficiency as a center fielder have actually revealed blended evaluations, although the Outs Above Average fact has actually regularly supported his protective abilities over his 6 seasons in the MLB. Transitioning Taveras to a corner outfield position or using him as a 4th outfielder, instead of solely as a center fielder, might improve his protective worth and plainly place him as a favorable factor defensively. This tactical change might not just advantage Taveras however likewise supply the Rangers with more versatility in their outfield lineup.

Throughout his profession, Taveras has actually had a hard time offensively, preserving a below-average striking record, especially this season with a batting line of .241/.259/.342 throughout 82 plate looks. His profession wRC+ stands at 84 over 1825 plate looks in the majors, peaking at a wRC+ of 100 throughout the Rangers’ World Series champion season in 2023, where he published a slash line of .266/.312/.421 over 554 plate looks. Notably, Taveras has actually revealed a little much better efficiency as a left-handed batter compared to his right-handed batting, though his left-side varieties of .241/.291/.387 stay modest at best, showing the requirement for enhancement in his offending production.

Taveras is categorized as a Super Two gamer, with 2 years of arbitration eligibility staying. Therefore, if declared, any brand-new group would have control over his services till completion of the 2027 season. Despite an absence of strong indicators that the Rangers were thinking about non-tendering Taveras last winter season, there was trade speculation surrounding him in January. According to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News, the Rangers tried to trade Taveras as just recently as recently however discovered no groups ready to trade gamers or presume his agreement commitments.

An effective waiver claim would enable the Rangers to part methods with Taveras easily while alleviating some monetary concern. One of the main goals for the Rangers this season is to stay listed below the $241 million high-end tax limit. Current approximates from RosterResource recommend their tax number sits at $237.1 million, showing they have very little monetary versatility. By moving Taveras off their lineup, the Rangers might acquire some vital breathing space under the tax line, enabling them possible versatility to make tactical additions as the trade due date methods.

If Taveras is undoubtedly on the brink of leaving Texas, possible replacements for center field responsibilities might consist of Kevin Pillar, Dustin Harris, or energy gamer Josh Smith. In specific, increased playing time for Smith in center field would supply the Rangers a chance to profit from his hot bat throughout what has actually otherwise been a difficult season offensively. Another choice might be Evan Carter, a previous leading possibility who might be phoned from Triple-A; nevertheless, it’s worth keeping in mind that he is presently striking just .221/.333/.416 throughout 90 plate looks at Round Rock in 2025.