Joc Pederson Signs With Texas Rangers

Free-agent outfielder and designated hitter Joc Pederson has reportedly reached an agreement with the Texas Rangers, as noted by Ken Rosenthal from Moneyline. The contract is a two-year deal valued at $37 million, which includes an opt-out clause following the first season. Pederson's addition is viewed as a strategic match for the Rangers' batting lineup.
In the 2024 season, the 32-year-old Pederson showcased his power-hitting ability by recording 23 home runs, 64 RBIs, and achieving a .275 batting average alongside a career-high .908 OPS. Notably, his OPS+ of 151 also marked a personal best, according to data from Baseball-Reference. Pederson's career commenced in 2014 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he played until 2020 and secured a World Series title with the club.
Following a brief tenure with the Chicago Cubs, Pederson was traded to the Atlanta Braves in July 2021. His performance was instrumental in helping the Braves secure their first World Series title since 1995, particularly highlighted by his two home runs against the Milwaukee Brewers during the NLDS. After a successful one-year stint with the San Francisco Giants in 2022, where he hit 23 home runs and earned an All-Star selection, Pederson re-signed with the Giants for the 2023 season. Although injuries limited his effectiveness, he contributed 15 home runs and 51 RBIs over 121 games. His decision to enter free agency post-2023 reflects his aspiration for a more rewarding contract given his performance in 2024. Update reports indicate interest from several teams, with the Rangers emerging as a notable destination as they seek to strengthen their lineup after a season plagued by injuries and underperformance.








