The Texas Rangers made several roster moves this week, highlighted by placing left-handed reliever Robert Garcia on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his left shoulder. The decision, announced Thursday, was made retroactive to Monday, meaning Garcia will be eligible to return sooner depending on how quickly he recovers.
Garcia, 29, has been sidelined since April 16, when he appeared briefly in a 9–6 victory over the Oakland Athletics. In that outing, he faced just one batter and successfully retired him, but he has not pitched since. Through nine appearances this season, Garcia has posted a 3.38 ERA over eight innings, recording six strikeouts while issuing seven walks. Despite the relatively small sample size, he has shown effectiveness in certain matchups, particularly against left-handed hitters. Opponents batting from the left side have yet to record a hit against him this season, going 0-for-13 with four strikeouts.
Over the course of his MLB career, Garcia has built a solid résumé as a bullpen arm. He owns a 9–17 record with nine saves and a 3.57 ERA across 177 relief appearances. His career has included stints with the Miami Marlins, Washington Nationals, and now the Rangers. Across 163 2/3 innings pitched, he has struck out 182 batters while walking 57, demonstrating his ability to miss bats even if command has occasionally been inconsistent.
To fill the open roster spot, Texas selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Peyton Gray from Triple-A Round Rock. The 30-year-old has been impressive in the minors this season, compiling a 1–0 record along with two saves and a perfect 0.00 ERA. Over 12 2/3 innings in seven relief appearances, Gray has struck out 15 batters while allowing just two walks, limiting opponents to a .186 batting average. If he makes his major league debut, Gray would become one of the oldest players in franchise history to debut, following left-hander Hyeon-jong Yang, who debuted at age 33 in 2021.
In a corresponding move, the Rangers designated catcher Willie MacIver for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster. MacIver, also 29, has struggled offensively in recent seasons. He hit .186 in 32 games last year with the Athletics and was batting just .170 in 14 games this season with Round Rock. The Rangers had previously claimed him off waivers in November 2025, but his limited production made him expendable as the team adjusted its roster.
With MacIver now designated for assignment, the Rangers have a seven-day window to determine his next step. The club can choose to trade him, release him outright, or send him to the minor leagues if he clears waivers.
Overall, these moves reflect Texas’ ongoing effort to manage injuries while maintaining bullpen depth. Garcia’s absence leaves a temporary gap, but Gray’s strong minor league performance gives the team a potential short-term solution as they navigate the early part of the season.
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