Jonah Heim: Let Go by Rangers After Being Non-Tendered
Jonah Heim’s time with the Texas Rangers has officially reached its conclusion, as the veteran catcher was non-tendered by the organization on Friday. The move brings an end to Heim’s five-season stint in Arlington, a period that saw him develop from a depth option into a trusted everyday player and one of the more respected defensive catchers in the American League. Despite his contributions on both sides of the ball, the Rangers ultimately chose to move on, creating an unexpected twist in what had been a steady chapter in Heim’s career.
The 30-year-old backstop spent most of the 2025 season as Texas’ primary catcher, although he did share some responsibilities behind the plate with veteran Kyle Higashioka. The pair alternated depending on pitching matchups, injuries and offensive trends, but Heim continued to be the preferred game-caller for several members of the Rangers’ rotation. His ability to handle a pitching staff, block tough breaking balls and control the run game remained major assets throughout the season.
Offensively, however, Heim endured one of the more challenging years of his career. He finished the 2025 campaign with a .213/.271/.332 slash line across 433 plate appearances. Despite the low batting average and on-base percentage, Heim still provided flashes of power, tallying 11 home runs and driving in 43 runs. He also showed some underrated athletic ability, swiping three bases and scoring 38 runs. While these numbers did not match his stronger offensive seasons from earlier in his tenure with Texas, they did illustrate his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, even during a down year.
The Rangers’ decision to non-tender Heim likely stems from a combination of financial considerations, roster direction and depth at the catcher position. With younger, more cost-controlled players emerging in the system, and with the team possibly aiming to reshape its batting lineup, Heim’s arbitration-eligible salary may have become a factor. Texas, coming off a season filled with inconsistency and numerous roster questions, appears ready to explore new options behind the plate.
For Heim, the non-tender opens a new door—one that could bring opportunity with a team seeking experience, leadership and defensive stability at catcher. At 30 years old, he is still in the prime years for a defensive-minded backstop, and his reputation for working well with pitchers will be appealing to several clubs searching for depth or a veteran presence. Teams with young rotations, in particular, often value catchers who excel at framing pitches and managing the game, both of which are strengths in Heim’s profile.
As free agency moves forward, Heim will now look for a new home before spring training begins. Given his experience as a starter, his postseason résumé and his defensive skill set, he should attract interest from multiple organizations. Whether he ends up in a timeshare role or earns another starting job, Heim remains a capable and reliable catcher who can positively impact a pitching staff.
While his departure marks the end of an era for the Rangers, it also signals a fresh chapter for Heim—a chance to reestablish himself and potentially thrive in a new environment.
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