MLB experts give mixed reviews on Texas Rangers following trade deadline
The 2025 MLB trade deadline came to a fiery finish at 5 p.m. Central Standard Time on Thursday, July 31. What do MLB experts think about the moves the Texas Rangers made? Here’s where four publications ranked the Rangers.
Jesse Yomtov and Gabe Lacques, USA Today: A-
Yomtow and Lacques handed the Rangers their only A ranking following this deadline, giving props to the organization for landing Merrill Kelly from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Kelly’s 3.22 ERA in 22 starts this season is a career best. Kelly’s postseason ERA of 2.25 during the Diamondbacks’ 2023 World Series run adds an extra boost to a pitching staff whose numbers are among the best in the league.
Jim Bowden, The Athletic: B+
Bowden of The Athletic gave the Rangers a B+ following the deadline, noting the addition of Kelly to the starting rotation as a strong point. Bowden also acknowledged the additions of both a lefthanded and righthanded relievers in Danny Coulombe and Phil Maton.
Bowden, however, did mention the inability for the Rangers to land another right-handed bat in the lineup.
Dayne Perry and Matt Snyder, CBS Sports: B
Both Perry and Snyder credited the decision by the Rangers to pursue and land Merrill Kelly as a “great move” for the starting rotation. The two also praised the addition of Maton and Coulombe, but also acknowledged the designated-hitter role as a position the Rangers need to “shore up.”
Jake Mintz, Yahoo! Sports: C
Mintz handed the Rangers the lowest grade of deadline. His reasoning had more to do with the lack of existing offensive production than the actual moves made. While Mintz praised the addition of Kelly, he stated the Rangers’ need for the veteran bats in the lineup to “wake up.”
The Rangers continue their playofff push on Friday on the road against the Seattle Mariners at 9:10 p.m.
