Rangers Make Key Moves: Sign Diaz and Re-Sign Martin

The Texas Rangers have made significant roster moves, recently signing reliever Alexis Diaz to a one-year contract, officially announced on December 16. Diaz, who has over three years of MLB service time, is eligible for arbitration through the 2028 season.

The signing of Diaz comes as the Rangers look to bolster their bullpen, which saw several key members, including Phil Maton and Chris Martin, reach free agency. Diaz, a former 12th round pick of the Cincinnati Reds, had a standout 2023 season, earning an All-Star nod and finishing third in the National League with 37 saves.

However, he also faced challenges with control, registering one of the highest walk rates among relievers. Alongside Diaz, the Rangers have re-signed veteran right-hander Chris Martin to a one-year deal, although his salary has not been disclosed.

Martin, who turned 39 in June, faced health issues during the 2025 season, including shoulder fatigue and a diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome, but demonstrated solid performance when healthy, with a 2.98 earned run average over 42 1/3 innings.

The Rangers' president of baseball operations, Chris Young, is focused on rebuilding the bullpen while managing budget constraints, having previously found success with one-year deals for relief pitchers.

The team also signed left-handed pitcher Tyler Alexander as part of their efforts to enhance pitching depth for the upcoming season.