The Texas Rangers have announced the optioning of pitchers Owen White and Zak Kent to AAA Round Rock, along with the re-assignment of pitchers Emiliano Teodo and Grant Wolfram to the minor league camp. This leaves the Rangers with 60 players in their major league camp.
These moves come as no surprise, given the challenging 2023 seasons for White and Kent, neither of whom have shown strong performances this spring. Neither was considered a strong candidate for the Opening Day roster, although there was a possibility that White, who made a few appearances for Texas last season, could have followed a path similar to Cole Ragans if he had a standout camp.
Teodo, at 23 years old, has showcased versatility as both a starter and reliever in the minors for the Rangers. His impressive showing in the Arizona Fall League at the end of 2023, where he struck out 19 batters while allowing only three hits and three walks in eleven innings, highlighted his potential. With a fastball reaching triple digits, he appears to be suited for a reliever role in the long term and could potentially join the Rangers in the majors this year. His assignment for the 2024 season, whether at Frisco or Hickory, likely hinges on whether the Rangers plan to utilize him in the bullpen or rotation.
Wolfram, a left-handed reliever, has been on the periphery of the Rangers’ radar for some time. While he had a solid performance in Frisco in 2023, he struggled in 11 outings for Round Rock. Like Teodo, his chances of making it to the major league bullpen in 2024 depend on the team’s needs and his progress throughout the season.