The Texas Rangers are aiming to replicate their MLB-best 3.41 ERA from 2025 with a revamped pitching staff. New manager Skip Schumaker highlighted key returning coaches and a promising newcomer. Health and depth remain critical challenges for the 2026 season.
The 2025 Texas Rangers assembled one of the best rotations in franchise history, achieving an MLB-leading 3.41 ERA. As they prepare for 2026, the team faces changes following the departure of former pitching coach Mike Maddux to the Angels. Familiar assistants Jordan Tiegs and Dave Bush return, joined by newcomer Colby Suggs, who brings experience from college pitching and bullpen success with the Minnesota Twins.
New manager Skip Schumaker praised the staff, saying, “Our players were really impacted in a positive way through Jordan. I thought Mike honesty was really good for Jordan. I think Mike was huge in his development. … Luckily we’ve got Jordan and Dave Bush. They were a huge part of that pitching department last year. Colby Suggs, I identified right away. I think he's a needle-mover. He's young, he's innovative, but he also pitched at a high level in college, and was very successful in the bullpens in Minnesota. A fantastic hire. I'm very grateful for that one.”
The rotation will be anchored by Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, both in their 30s. Eovaldi posted a 1.73 ERA in 22 starts with 129 strikeouts over 130 innings in 2025, while deGrom recorded a 2.97 ERA and 0.92 WHIP, earning AL Comeback Player of the Year after his second Tommy John surgery. Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker enter their second full seasons, though injuries affected the group last year—everyone except deGrom spent time on the injured list, and Cody Bradford missed the season due to a left elbow injury requiring UCL surgery, with a return expected by summer.
With Patrick Corbin, Tyler Mahle, and Jon Gray entering free agency, the Rangers seek cost-effective depth. Corbin provided 155 1/3 innings on a one-year deal in 2025. Internal options include reliever Jacob Latz, who had a 2.72 ERA in eight starts (39 2/3 innings) and 2.93 ERA in 25 relief appearances (46 innings). Prospects like Jose Corniell (No. 3 on MLB Pipeline's Rangers list), Winston Santos (No. 4), and Emiliano Teodo (No. 14) could contribute, alongside potential waiver claims.