Long-time Rangers trade target considered perfect fit for team in free agency

Many writers and media members viewed slugging Atlanta Braves designated hitter Marcell Ozuna as a potential trade target for the Texas Rangers this past summer. The Braves ended up holding onto Ozuna despite being far away from a playoff spot. The designated hitter had the right to veto trades, so it's possible he just wanted to finish the season with Atlanta, while the Braves would have preferred to move him for young talent.

Long-time Rangers trade target Marcell Ozuna considered perfect fit for team in free agency

Now that Ozuna is a free agent, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand believes that the veteran slugger is the "perfect free-agent match" for the Rangers.

Ozuna regressed last season, posting 1.6 bWAR and a .232/.355/.400 (113 OPS+) slash line after having an OPS of over .900 each of the previous two seasons. Still, he was an above-average hitter in 2025, and he certainly would've made the Rangers' offense better if he were on the team last season. Texas finished the 2025 campaign ranked 26th in OPS (.683), leading to the team missing the postseason with an 81-81 win-loss record despite having the best ERA (3.47) in the league.

Despite payroll limitations, the Rangers have already demonstrated their commitment to fixing their offense this offseason by trading second baseman Marcus Semien to the New York Mets for outfielder Brandon Nimmo. Adding Ozuna could further improve Texas' offense. And since Ozuna regressed this past season and hasn't played defense since 2023, he should be relatively affordable.

However, Ozuna's inability to play adequate defense could deter the Rangers from signing him. Nimmo isn't a great defender these days, either, so Texas likely would want the former Met to serve as the designated hitter somewhat frequently. If the Rangers add Ozuna, he will be locked into that designated hitter role.

It's also easy to forget that the Rangers still have Joc Pederson, who is also a poor defensive outfielder. Pederson struggled significantly this past season, but the Rangers may just plug him into the lineup and hope for a resurgence since he is owed $18.5 million for 2026. But if Texas is committed to improving its offense, keeping Pederson out of the lineup may be the best option.

ESPN projects Ozuna will receive a two-year, $30 million deal this offseason. That may be too steep a price for the Rangers. Still, they should at least monitor the market for Ozuna this winter and make him an offer of some sort.