As the 2025 Texas Rangers season wraps up, we're diving into the performances of each player who donned the Rangers' uniform this year. Today, let's focus on pitcher Codi Heuer, whose journey is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.
Codi Heuer had a brief stint with the Rangers, making a single appearance in 2025. His contract was purchased on June 1 when the team needed bullpen depth due to Nathan Eovaldi's injury.
Heuer took the mound on June 3 in Tampa, recording the final four outs, striking out one, but also allowing a home run. The next day, he was sent back to AAA, and by July 31, he was traded to Detroit for cash considerations.
While his time with the Rangers was short, Heuer's story is compelling. Drafted in the sixth round by the Chicago White Sox in 2018 from Wichita State, he wasn't a top prospect but quickly made his mark. In 2020, Heuer impressed with a 1.52 ERA over 21 games, contributing in Chicago's Wild Card Series against Oakland.
The following year wasn't as kind, as his ERA rose to 5.12 over 40 games. He was then traded to the Cubs, where he found some form, posting a 3.14 ERA in 25 games and saving a game against the Pirates in his final 2021 appearance.
However, Heuer's career took a challenging turn. In 2022, a damaged UCL led to Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the entire season.
His rehab began in May 2023, but just as he was nearing a return, he re-injured his elbow, this time suffering a fracture. After 14 months of recovery and six weeks of AAA appearances, Heuer faced another long rehab journey.
In November 2023, Heuer became a free agent and signed a minor league deal with the Rangers in April 2024. He spent that season rehabbing, marking the second time in three years he didn't pitch competitively.
Fast forward to spring training 2025, Heuer was a non-roster invitee at the major league camp. Starting the year with Round Rock, he performed well enough to earn another shot in the majors.
His outing on June 3 in Tampa was more than just a game; it was a personal victory. After years of setbacks, Heuer proved his resilience, showing that determination can lead you back to the big leagues.
After his trade to Detroit, Heuer made a couple of appearances for the Tigers but primarily played for their AAA team in Toledo. Released in September, he signed a minor league deal with the Cleveland Guardians and is expected to start the 2026 season with their AAA affiliate in Columbus.
Codi Heuer's journey is far from over, and his tenacity is inspiring. Here's hoping we see him back in the majors in 2026.