Five Bullpen Targets the Rangers Could Pursue Ahead of Thursday’s MLB Trade Deadline
As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Texas Rangers have made it clear — they’re buyers. After a dominant 8-1 homestand, the team has clawed its way back into postseason contention, sitting just four games behind the AL West lead and holding a share of the final AL wild card spot.
While the offense has finally come alive and the starting rotation has shown flashes of dominance, the bullpen remains a key area of focus — especially with Chris Martin sidelined due to a calf injury and four relievers already surpassing 40 appearances this season. Though the relief corps has been generally reliable, the Rangers know that late-season success often comes down to bullpen depth.
They may not be shopping for a top-tier closer — although that option isn’t entirely off the table — but they are certainly in the market for quality arms that can provide stability and high-leverage experience. One added complication: the Rangers are tight on payroll space, with only about $6 million to spare under the competitive balance tax threshold of $241 million.
With that in mind, here are five bullpen arms that could be ideal fits as the Rangers eye a playoff push:
1. RHP Jake Bird – Colorado Rockies
A right-handed reliever with deceptive mechanics and team control through 2028, Bird is seen as one of Colorado’s most likely trade chips. His delivery, reminiscent of Hoby Milner but from the right side, makes him a tough read for hitters — and a great pairing option with Milner out of the pen.
Stats: 4-1, 4.05 ERA, 62 strikeouts, 21 walks in 53.1 innings (44 games)
Cost: Under $1M for rest of season; would require prospects due to team control
Why He Fits: Durable, quirky delivery, high-leverage capability, affordable
2. RHP Ryan Helsley – St. Louis Cardinals
The Rangers and Cardinals successfully worked together at the 2023 deadline, and a reunion could make sense. Helsley is a free agent after this season and comes with 21 saves in 26 chances. Despite the elite closer profile, he’s financially feasible due to his $8.2 million salary and short-term rental status.
Stats: 3-1, 3.00 ERA, 41 strikeouts, 21 saves in 36 innings (36 games)
Cost: Two mid-level prospects; won’t break the bank
Why He Fits: Proven closer, playoff experience, affordable and short-term rental
3. RHP Dennis Santana – Pittsburgh Pirates
A familiar face in Arlington, Santana pitched for the Rangers in 2022 and is now putting together a breakout season in Pittsburgh. His high-velocity arsenal (touching 98 mph) includes a dangerous four-seamer and splitter. He’s cheap and under team control through 2026.
Stats: 3-2, 1.42 ERA, 36 strikeouts, 5 saves, 12 holds in 44.1 innings (44 games)
Cost: Likely one controllable prospect
Why He Fits: Power arm, familiar face, budget-friendly, long-term value
4. LHP Danny Coulombe – Minnesota Twins
Texas already has a lefty workhorse in Milner, but Coulombe’s performance this year demands attention. With pinpoint command, a low-90s fastball, and a nearly nonexistent walk rate, he’s been quietly elite. He’s also extremely affordable.
Stats: 1-0, 1.16 ERA, 39 strikeouts, 9 walks, 8 holds, 2 saves in 31 innings (40 games)
Cost: Minimal salary; could be had for a single prospect
Why He Fits: Low cost, elite control, complements current bullpen pieces
5. RHP Robert Suarez – San Diego Padres
This would be the boldest move — but also the most impactful. Suarez leads MLB in saves and would solidify the back end of the bullpen instantly. His contract includes opt-outs, giving Texas some flexibility. While pricey and possibly out of reach, the Padres’ playoff uncertainty and GM A.J. Preller’s aggressiveness make it a conversation worth having.
Stats: 2-4, 3.38 ERA, 45 strikeouts, 30 saves in 42.2 innings (45 games)
Cost: Likely a top prospect package; ~$4M owed this season
Why He Fits: Elite closer, playoff insurance, potential multi-year bullpen anchor
Final Thoughts:
With the team riding a hot streak and surging back into playoff relevance, the front office — led by Chris Young — now faces critical decisions that could define the rest of the season. Whether the Rangers opt for a low-cost, high-upside arm or swing big for a dominant closer, bullpen reinforcements are coming.
If Texas truly believes this is a postseason team, a well-timed move before the deadline could be the difference between falling short and making another deep October run.
