Texas Rangers land seven undrafted free agents, including this area prep product
Three high school players were among the seven undrafted free agents signed by the Texas Rangers the past two days, including right-hander Josh Stephan from South Grand Prairie.
The expectation across baseball was that college players who were ready to start their professional careers would account for the vast majority of the agreements in this unprecedented period.
The MLB draft was cut to only five rounds, down from 40, as a way for teams to cut expenses during the coronavirus pandemic. The maximum salary an undrafted free agent can receive is $20,000, though teams can attempt to woo players with other perks like money to pay for college courses.
Bobby Crook, the special assignment cross-checker, headed the Rangers’ plunge into, in essence, recruiting players to the organization. Groundwork was laid before the draft, and calls started at 8 a.m. Sunday after a dead period following the draft.
In addition to Stephan, the Rangers signed prep catcher Fernando Amaro from Puerto Rico and right-hander DJ McCarty from California. The Rangers also added catcher Brady Smith from college powerhouse Florida, and righties Nick Krauth (Connecticut), Connor Sechler (Drury) and Colton Snyder (Concordia, Calif.).
“We think all of the guys are very talented players and are guys our guys have earmarked for a long time,” Crook said.
Crook said the Rangers believe each of the pitchers has more velocity to show than what they have flashed so far, with most in the 88-92 mph range. Both catchers also have a background as infielders.
The Rangers aren’t done looking for players, Crook said.
