The Texas Rangers have officially signed their first two selections from the 2025 MLB Draft — both collegiate pitchers who are recovering from injuries — and did so at below their respective slot values.
According to reports from MLB.com and The Dallas Morning News, the Rangers have reached deals with fourth-round pick Mason McConnaughey (University of Nebraska) and fifth-rounder Ben Abeldt (TCU). Both players signed underslot contracts, allowing the Rangers to save money within their draft bonus pool for other selections.
McConnaughey, drafted 115th overall, was expected to receive a $661,000 slot bonus but instead signed for $495,825. Abeldt, selected 146th, had a slot value of $489,200 and signed for $450,000. Both players were eligible to return to college but chose to go pro.
Abeldt missed the 2025 college season due to an elbow injury that required surgery — performed by the Rangers’ team doctor, Keith Meister — but was projected to be a key part of TCU’s rotation. Before his injury, he excelled as a reliever in 2024, posting a 1.83 ERA across 25 appearances, with eight saves and 54 strikeouts in 44.1 innings. His performance earned him multiple honors, including All-Big 12 First Team and second-team All-American recognition.
McConnaughey also saw his season cut short early due to injury but had an impressive 2024 campaign. He went 9-3 with a 3.45 ERA and earned second-team All-Big Ten honors before his setback.
These strategic underslot signings give the Rangers flexibility to potentially offer over-slot deals to their top picks, such as first-rounder Gavin Fien (slated for a $5.75 million bonus) and second-rounder AJ Russell ($1.85 million bonus). The team has until July 28 to finalize deals with the rest of its draft class.
This approach mirrors a growing trend in MLB draft strategy — targeting injured players with high upside at a discount, while reallocating savings to attract top-tier talent in earlier rounds.
