Full Breakdown
Texas Rangers Sign Declan Cronin Amid Injury Recovery
11/19/2025, 9:43:01 PM
Signing Overview
The Texas Rangers have signed right-handed pitcher Declan Cronin to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to MLB Spring Training. This decision follows Cronin's release from the Miami Marlins in September 2025 and is part of the Rangers' strategy to bolster their pitching depth while considering future potential.
Declan Cronin's Injury History
Cronin's signing is viewed as a long-term investment for the Rangers, as he is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. In 2024, Cronin made 56 appearances out of the Marlins' bullpen, achieving a 4.35 ERA and striking out 9.2 batters per nine innings. However, his career has been marred by injuries, including a knee issue at the end of the 2024 season, a hip problem that affected the start of 2025, and subsequent complications that led to his surgery.
Roster Moves and Prospects
In addition to Cronin, the Rangers have made significant adjustments to their 40-man roster. They added three prospects—right-handers David Davalillo and Leandro Lopez, along with first baseman Abi Ortiz—to protect them from the Rule 5 draft. Davalillo has emerged as a top-10 prospect within the organization, known for his effective split-fingered fastball, while Lopez is recognized for his curveball and slider. Ortiz, who has shown power-hitting capabilities, was also a strong candidate for the roster after a successful stint in the minors.
Official Statements & Responses
The Rangers' management expressed optimism about Cronin's potential contributions once he fully recovers. The team is taking a calculated risk, as Cronin's previous performance indicates he could be a valuable asset in the future. The addition of young prospects like Davalillo, Lopez, and Ortiz reflects the Rangers' commitment to developing talent within their system.
Criticism & Opposition
While the signing of Cronin has been generally well-received as a low-risk move, some analysts question the wisdom of investing in a player recovering from a significant injury. Critics argue that the Rangers should prioritize immediate contributions to their pitching staff rather than focusing on long-term recovery projects.
What's Next
As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming season, they will closely monitor Cronin's rehabilitation process. The team hopes that with the right support and training, he can return to form and contribute to their bullpen in 2027. Meanwhile, the newly added prospects will be evaluated during Spring Training to determine their readiness for the major leagues.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Rangers are playing the long game with Cronin, and in reality it's quite a low-risk move.” — Anonymous Analyst
