BREAKING: Rangers Confirms Deal with Ex-Reds Catcher to Strengthen Roster

Amid the frenzy of MLB free agency, the Texas Rangers have made a move by signing former Cincinnati Reds catcher Tucker Barnhart. The 2023 World Series champions, coming off a challenging second season under legendary manager Bruce Bochy, faced a setback when they missed out on acquiring star pitcher Max Fried. Despite that, the Rangers have remained active this offseason and secured Barnhart to a minor-league contract, which includes an invite to spring training and the potential for a $1 million payout if he makes the major league roster.

Barnhart, an 11-year veteran, spent eight seasons with the Reds before playing for the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, and Arizona Diamondbacks over the past three years. Over his career, he’s hit 53 home runs, 292 RBIs, and posted a .241 batting average. Known for his defensive consistency, Barnhart has never committed more than three errors in a full season. He will compete for a spot on a Rangers team that has struggled offensively from the catcher position. Jonah Heim, the team’s primary starter, is coming off a season in which he batted .221 with 13 home runs and 59 RBIs over 131 games.

In Bochy’s first year in Texas, the Rangers exceeded expectations by making their first postseason appearance since 2016 and ultimately capturing their first-ever World Series title. However, after finishing 78-84 and third in the AL West last season, the team is looking to bounce back, with key players like World Series MVP Corey Seager remaining part of the roster.