Rangers News: International signings, TX likely done adding bats, Díaz update and more

Rangers "encouraged" by potential 2026 closer Alexis Díaz's progress

On January 9, DLLS Sports' Jeff Wilson reported that the Rangers are "encouraged by Alexis Díaz's progress this offseason". Wilson also said Díaz is "hungry to return to the form he showed with the Reds" and could become the team's closer in 2026.

The Rangers signed Díaz, 29, to a one-year, $1 million contract in December. He was once an All-Star and was widely considered one of the best closers in baseball.

Díaz, the younger brother of star Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz,w regressed significantly last season, allowing eight earned runs on eight hits (four homers) and five walks across six innings with the Reds, who responded by optioning him to Triple-A Louisville on May 1. About four weeks later, the Reds traded the righty to the Los Angeles Dodgers for right-handed pitcher Mike Villani.

Díaz made just nine appearances for Los Angeles, allowing five earned runs on seven hits (two homers) and two walks across nine innings. After demoting and recalling Díaz several times, the Dodgers designated him for assignment in early September, and the Atlanta Braves claimed him. He surrendered three earned runs on no hits and five walks in 2 2/3 innings across three outings for Atlanta.

Rangers focusing on adding pitching over more position players

Texas Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young recently said the Rangers "feel pretty good" about their position players heading into 2026 and that “pitching is the main focus,” according to the Dallas Morning News' Shawn McFarland.

As far as established position players go, the Rangers have added outfielder Brandon Nimmo and catcher Danny Jensen this offseason. Still, the Rangers' offense was among the league's worst last season. Young would be making a mistake if he didn't attempt to further improve the Rangers' offense for 2026.

Rangers' 2026 international signings include top infielder, 19 others

The Rangers signed 20 international players on the day the international signing period opened. The group is highlighted by 17-year-old Dominican Republic infielder Elian Rosario, who signed for $2.5 million.

Click here for the full list of the Rangers' 2026 international signings: Rangers' international free agent class highlighted by two top 50 prospects

Three Rangers make MLB Network's Top 100 list

Right-handed starting pitcher Jacob deGrom ranked 50th overall on MLB Network's Top 100 Right Now list. Additionally, right-handed starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi ranked 64th and outfielder Wyatt Langford ranked 69th.