The Texas Rangers are bringing in a once-powerful bat in hopes of reigniting his offensive spark. According to The Athletic’s Will Sammon, the Rangers are signing former Seattle Mariners first baseman and designated hitter Rowdy Tellez to a minor league contract. While the club hasn’t made the move official yet, Tellez is expected to report to their Triple-A affiliate in Round Rock.
Tellez was recently released by Seattle after being designated for assignment on June 20 and going unclaimed on waivers. He had a disappointing stint with the Mariners, hitting just .208 with 11 home runs and 27 RBI. Despite his struggles, Tellez has a history of power, including a 35-home run season with Milwaukee in 2022 and a breakout 21-homer year with Toronto in 2019.
By signing him to a minor league deal, the Rangers avoid using a spot on their 40-man roster, which currently has an opening. Texas is still seeking consistent production at first base and designated hitter. Jake Burger, recently activated from the injured list, has shown slight improvement, but his offensive numbers remain underwhelming. Meanwhile, Joc Pederson—originally expected to anchor the DH role—remains sidelined with a fractured hand after an already rough start to the season.
The Rangers are hoping Tellez can rediscover some of his past form and offer a spark to an offense that has lacked consistency throughout the year.
