3 players the Rangers should trade for this offseason

The Texas Rangers need a revival for the 2026 season after a two straight upsetting seasons.

President of Baseball Operations Chris Young and the rest of the ownership and front office think the answer lies in getting younger and cutting payroll. But when has that ever been a recipe for World Series contention?

Not saying the answer is to spend an absurd amount of money, just look at the 2025 New York Mets. However, Young and the rest of the organization should be aggressive while also being mindful.

3 players the Rangers should trade for this offseason

Brandon Marsh, OF

Marsh has been a fixture in Philadelphia since being traded mid-season in 2022 from the Los Angeles Angels. The 27-year-old outfielder with his long wet hair and scruffy beard has built himself a career over five seasons where he is seen as a consistently reliable ballplayer.

This season, Marsh slashed .280/.342/.443 with 11 home runs, 43 RBIs, 25 doubles and a 1.3 WAR in 133 games at all three defensive outfield positions.

It's hard to say the Phillies would get rid of Marsh but some people see it as a potential scenario. As prospects continue to develop and Marsh's contract demands start increasing, they could move on from him.

Adley Rutschman, C

Rutschman's situation is bit weird with Baltimore. Once seen as the next big thing, the 27-year-old catcher experienced a 2025 season filled with inconsistent play and injuries. Then in the middle of that, the Orioles gave their No. 1 overall prospect catcher in Samuel Basallo an eight-year, $67 million extension.

Basallo's deal is the fourth-largest in Baltimore history which makes it safe to think Baltimore has more faith in him over Adley, despite what the Orioles' organization might say.

The trade rumors started to spin in late-August and will likely continue throughout the offseason. With the Rangers tough luck at catcher, they will likely be seen as a favorite to land the former first-rounder.

Cade Smith, RHP

In his pre-arbitration years, the 26-year-old relief pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians will likely be held on to for many years to come.

Texas does need a bullpen though and they need it for cheap. What is cheaper than a pre-arb guy making less than $1 million a year? Smith appeared in 76 games for Cleveland in 2025 to the tune of an 8-5 record, 2.93 ERA, 104 strikeouts, 19 walks, 1.00 WHIP and 16 saves.

Smith was a potential trade target near the deadline this summer when the team was nearly 15 games out of the AL Central. Thankfully they kept him as he held hitters to a .176 average post-All-Star Break and Cleveland bounced back to win the division.

Rangers don't have much to trade for Smith but there is always an interest in young talent. That would be up to them to decide if they are truly at the stage of contention or pushing toward the future.