3 Texas Rangers who should absolutely not return in 2023

As the Texas Rangers begin to set their sights on 2023, it’s become increasingly clear which players are worth retaining for next season and which ones to move on from. This is especially true of a team that intends to start competing for real. There’s no more time to waste.

Young talents like Josh Jung, Bubba Thompson, Ezequiel Duran and Josh Smith should stay. Seems obvious enough, right? (Unless there’s a major trade to swing, of course). And that should make some of the veteran players on this squad expendable. You would think.

Here are three players who should absolutely not return to the Rangers in 2023.

3 players who should absolutely not return to the Texas Rangers in 2023

Brad Miller

What a disaster he’s been. Signed to a two-year deal last off-season, Miller has provided negative value for the Texas Rangers in 2022, totaling a -.1.4 bWAR despite having versatility and left-handed pop.

Let’s face it: Miller has been utterly useless for this team. After hitting 20 homers as a reserve player for the Phillies in 2021, that power has dissipated in a major way in 2022, as Miller has just seven long balls with the Rangers. He hasn’t been on the field recently either due to injuries.

There’s no scenario that can be drawn up where the veteran utility man continues to occupy a roster spot heading into 2023, when he could be replaced by… competence. Or at the very least, a young player.

It’s time for the Rangers to cut their loss here and absorb the second (and final) year on his contract, just as they’ve done with Rougned Odor, Joey Gallo and Elvis Andrus the last few seasons.