Rangers Swing Triple Trade Deal to Strengthen Pitching Core Ahead of MLB Deadline
By Justin DeSales – Senior Reporter | Sports | August 1, 2025
In a determined push to solidify their postseason aspirations, the Texas Rangers executed three key pitching trades just ahead of Thursday’s MLB trade deadline.
As previously outlined by The Dallas Express, Texas had been actively searching for ways to upgrade their pitching corps. That search culminated in a trio of deals addressing both the rotation and the bullpen.
Headlining the moves is the addition of veteran right-hander Merrill Kelly from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Kelly, who famously handed the Rangers one of their few losses in the 2023 World Series, joins Texas with a 3.22 ERA, 121 strikeouts, and a 9-6 record over nearly 129 innings this season. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations is expected to add crucial depth to the starting rotation.
To bolster the bullpen, Texas acquired left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe from the Minnesota Twins. Coulombe has emerged as a major value pickup this season, excelling against both left- and right-handed hitters. On a modest $3 million deal for 2025, he’s been lights-out through 40 appearances, posting a minuscule 1.16 ERA and tallying 31 strikeouts.
Rounding out the acquisitions, the Rangers landed right-handed reliever Phil Maton from the St. Louis Cardinals. With 40 outings this season, Maton brings a 2.35 ERA and 48 strikeouts to Arlington, providing another reliable late-inning option.
To finalize these deals, Texas parted ways with several promising arms: left-handers Garrett Horn, Mason Molina, Kohl Drake, and Mitch Bratt, along with right-handers Skyler Hales and David Hagaman.
Despite the cost, General Manager Chris Young’s actions send a decisive message: the Rangers are all-in on contending. With just one game separating them from the final AL wild card slot and 52 games left to play, Texas is banking on these reinforcements to sustain their recent momentum and carry them into October.
