Rangers Strike Deal With Left-Handed Pitcher Hoby Milner

A New Addition for the Rangers

The Texas Rangers have officially signed veteran left-handed pitcher Hoby Milner to their roster. The agreement is a one-year deal, though the club has yet to confirm the details. This move marks a crucial step in the Rangers’ strategy to strengthen their bullpen ahead of the 2025 season, aiming to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities.

Hoby Milner is not just any pitcher; he is a seasoned professional with significant potential in the baseball world. Having gained experience across multiple teams, Milner brings a wealth of knowledge and skills. His addition to the Rangers’ lineup promises not only stability but also tactical versatility in game scenarios.

Hoby Milner’s Career Journey

Born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, Hoby Milner will turn 34 in January. A graduate of the University of Texas, he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the seventh round of the 2012 MLB Draft. Milner made an impressive debut in 2017, achieving a stellar 2.01 ERA, signaling his potential as a professional baseball standout.

Stints with Tampa Bay and the Los Angeles Angels

Following his successful debut with the Phillies, Milner was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays midway through the 2018 season. During his brief time there, he made eight appearances before moving on to the Los Angeles Angels ahead of the 2020 season, which was shortened due to the pandemic. Unfortunately, his performance dipped, with an 8.10 ERA over 19 appearances, marking a challenging period in his career.

Revival with the Milwaukee Brewers

Milner revived his form after joining the Milwaukee Brewers, making significant strides and becoming a key figure in their bullpen. In 2023, he enjoyed a standout season with a remarkable 1.82 ERA over 73 appearances. However, the following season saw a decline in performance, with a 4.73 ERA across 61 games. These fluctuations have left fans and analysts questioning his role in the Rangers’ pitching roster.

Impressive Stats and Future Potential

Despite a subpar 2024 season, Milner’s underlying metrics suggest he was somewhat unlucky. His expected ERA (xERA) of 3.24 was nearly a run and a half lower than his actual ERA. Moreover, he ranked in the top 10% among eligible pitchers in key metrics such as walk rate (5.2%), barrel rate (2.7%), and ground ball rate (53.7%). These numbers indicate that Milner still has significant untapped potential, which the Rangers could capitalize on.

Statistical Breakdown:

• ERA (Earned Run Average): With a 1.82 ERA in 2023, Milner demonstrated his ability to limit opposing teams’ scoring opportunities effectively.
• Walk Rate: His 5.2% walk rate highlights strong control on the mound, a critical attribute for reducing scoring chances for opposing hitters.
• Barrel Rate: A 2.7% barrel rate underscores Milner’s capacity to throw challenging pitches that limit hard-hit balls.
• Ground Ball Rate: At 53.7%, Milner is adept at inducing grounders, a skill that can be pivotal in tight-game situations.

A Crucial Addition to the Bullpen

Adding Hoby Milner is a strategic move as the Rangers work to rebuild their bullpen for the 2025 season. The team recently lost four critical relief pitchers—Kirby Yates, David Robertson, José Leclerc, and Andrew Chafin—to free agency. Additionally, right-handed starter José Ureña, who pitched 109 innings, has also departed.

The Rangers’ Current Landscape

The Rangers are facing significant challenges in assembling a reliable bullpen. The departures of key players such as Yates and Robertson have left gaps that need filling. Milner will play a vital role in stabilizing the bullpen and providing the team with a competitive edge in tight matches. Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Chris Young has emphasized the need for creativity in building the pitching staff, whether through signings, trades, or waivers. A strong bullpen is often the backbone of successful teams, and Milner is expected to be an essential piece of this effort.

A New Approach

Recent signings, including Jacob Webb and Hoby Milner, reflect the Rangers’ willingness to explore new opportunities with overlooked but promising players. Neither player had their contracts extended by previous teams before joining the Rangers, underscoring the team’s commitment to innovation. The acquisition of Hoby Milner is a significant step forward in the Rangers’ pursuit of success. With his experience and potential, Milner is poised to provide stability and strength to the bullpen. Fans can look forward to an exciting 2025 season as the Rangers aim for a brighter future in Major League Baseball.

Expectations for the Upcoming Season

Rangers fans eagerly anticipate the team’s resurgence in 2025, bolstered by the addition of Hoby Milner. Will he become a key player in their quest for success? With the right support from teammates and a clear strategic vision from management, the Rangers could achieve remarkable results in the coming season. Let’s cheer for the team as they embark on this new chapter!