The case for the Texas Rangers to re-sign Nathan Eovaldi this offseason

The role of a starting pitcher has evolved over the past few seasons alone, and the Texas Rangers will have to decide whether or not to invest in an archetype that is becoming a rarity.

Nathan Eovaldi has enjoyed a successful tenure in Texas, but given he’s set to become a free agent, it is not a given that he will return. While the front office may opt to invest in the bullpen instead of a starting rotation that will have options, Eovaldi’s approach and Postseason experience will give general manager Chris Young and company something to seriously consider before letting the two-time World Series champion walk away.

From a plain point of view, Eovaldi is the kind of arm who wants to take the ball every five days. When he’s healthy, the 34-year-old righty is a workhorse with aging stuff. His fastball, sinker, split-finger, cutter, curveball, and slider mix makes for an interesting blend that has perplexed hitters far and wide. He posted a 3.80 ERA across 170.2 innings in what was a strange 2024 for Texas.

His fastball has dipped slightly over the years, but it is not as if the Texas native is entirely reliant on his ability to blow past the opposition. Eovaldi ranked in the 82nd percentile in ground ball% and the 87th percentile in terms of chase% in 2024, meaning even if he was not necessarily a “strikeout machine,” he was able to keep batters on their toes and make them guess when needed.

The case for the Texas Rangers to re-sign Nathan Eovaldi this offseason

It is possible that the front office will view his age and dip in fastball speed as deterrents, but Eovaldi’s ability to be crafty with his pitch mix may offer room for a few more seasons of solid starts.

Regardless of how one feels about the former 11th round pick’s future, his past will undoubtedly be a part of the Rangers’ decision. Specifically, Eovaldi’s Postseason resume figures to carry serious weight.

His 3.05 career Postseason ERA is an impressive mark, and his performance in last year’s tournament was not the first time he showed such poise. The veteran was a key part of the Boston's 2018 run, and likely brought a unique perspective to the Rangers’ 2023 clubhouse.

The case for Nathan Eovaldi is clear. While he’s not always an overpowering force on the mound, his creativity and October track record make him a valuable asset.