Texas Rangers sign free agent reliever Shawn Kelley

Per report, the Texas Rangers have signed right-handed reliever Shawn Kelley to a one-year deal. Their bullpen is inching closer to fulfillment.

As reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Texas Rangers have agreed with free agent reliever Shawn Kelley on a one-year, $2.5 million contract. The deal also includes a club option for the 2020 season.

This is the second move in as many weeks that the Rangers have made to strengthen their bullpen. Last week, they signed Zach McAllister to a one-year, $1 million contract.

Shawn Kelley is coming off a very impressive season. Between the Washington Nationals and Oakland Athletics, he posted a 2.94 ERA and 0.898 WHIP. He relies mostly on his fastball/slider combination but also has a changeup in the mix. He has swing-and-miss stuff, as indicated by his 50 strikeouts in 49 innings pitched in 2018.

The addition is a great one for the Texas Rangers. They add an experienced, proven arm to their ‘pen, and for a notable bargain. Kelley will have a chance to shine in a young bullpen. He’ll pitch in short relief, likely 7th innings. However, the setup role seems up for grabs as spring training nears.

Furthermore, the 34-year-old Kelly will be pitching in another contract season. He has plenty of incentive to earn either the club option or a pay raise from another team when 2019-20 free agency hits.