Rangers Make Multiple Trades to Strengthen MLB Pitching Staff

The Texas Rangers aggressively bolstered their pitching staff ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline, making three key acquisitions to strengthen both their starting rotation and bullpen in a bid for a postseason push. They acquired right-handed starter Merrill Kelly from the Arizona Diamondbacks, who has posted a 3.22 ERA with 121 strikeouts over 22 starts this season, adding consistency and big-game experience to their rotation. To reinforce their bullpen, the Rangers added left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe from the Minnesota Twins, who has an exceptional 1.16 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 40 appearances, and veteran reliever Phil Maton from the St. Louis Cardinals, who brings a 2.35 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 40 appearances. These moves reflect the Rangers' strategic focus on pitching as their pathway to another deep postseason run, despite ongoing concerns about their below-average offensive production. The team currently sits in a tight race for the American League Wild Card spot, trailing the Houston Astros and competing closely with the Seattle Mariners, making these deadline upgrades crucial. Additionally, the Rangers outbid the Boston Red Sox to secure Kelly, underscoring their commitment to strengthening the roster for the stretch run.