The Texas Rangers have taken another step toward reinforcing their pitching depth, adding a familiar and dependable arm to their bullpen mix. According to reports shared by MLB, Texas has agreed to a one-year contract with veteran right-handed reliever Jakob Junis, who spent the 2025 season with the Cleveland Guardians. The move gives the Rangers a low-risk, experience-driven option as they look to stabilize a pitching staff that faced significant challenges last year.
MLB insider Mark Feinsand was among those to confirm the signing, noting that multiple reports indicated an agreement between Junis and the Rangers. While the deal did not generate blockbuster headlines, it represents the type of under-the-radar acquisition that often proves valuable over the course of a long season.
Junis’ time in Cleveland may have flown somewhat under the radar, but his performance spoke for itself. During the 2025 campaign, he appeared in 57 games for the Guardians, working 66.2 innings out of the bullpen. He finished the season with a strong 2.97 ERA, a 1.23 WHIP, and 55 strikeouts, while posting a 4–1 record. Junis was frequently called upon in middle-inning situations and became a steady presence during periods when Cleveland’s bullpen was stretched thin due to injuries and inconsistency.
Although he was rarely the most talked-about reliever on the roster, Junis consistently delivered competitive outings. His ability to limit damage and keep games within reach made him a trusted option for the Guardians’ coaching staff. For an organization known for emphasizing pitching depth and efficiency, Junis’ reliability did not go unnoticed—either internally or by teams around the league.
Now 33 years old, Junis brings a lengthy track record to Texas. He originally broke into the majors with the Kansas City Royals and later spent time with the San Francisco Giants and Milwaukee Brewers before joining Cleveland. Over the course of his career, he has accumulated nearly 850 major league innings, transitioning between starting and relief roles before settling into a bullpen-focused role in recent seasons.
That flexibility is likely a key reason the Rangers targeted him. Texas endured persistent pitching problems throughout the 2025 season, frequently cycling through arms in an effort to remain competitive in the American League. Injuries and inconsistency forced the team to rely heavily on depth options, exposing the need for reliable veterans who can adapt to different situations.
By signing Junis, the Rangers add a pitcher who can fill multiple roles—whether as a traditional reliever, a multi-inning bridge arm, or emergency depth if rotation needs arise. His experience and calm presence could be especially valuable for a staff that struggled to find stability.
While the signing may not make headlines, it aligns with a broader strategy focused on improving depth and durability. For Texas, Jakob Junis represents a proven, affordable solution who can quietly contribute throughout the season—and sometimes, those are the moves that matter most.
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