The Rangers are entering the 2026 season with a familiar issue: the absence of a proven closer. Their gamble on Alexis Díaz, a one-year, $1 million deal, hasn't paid off as hoped. With Díaz now designated for assignment, the team is left to navigate the closer role with limited options just weeks before the season opener on March 26.
The decision to move on from Díaz wasn't entirely unexpected. His struggles on the mound made it clear that the Rangers needed to reassess their bullpen strategy. Now, the focus shifts to lefty Robert Garcia and right-hander Chris Martin as the primary candidates to step into the closer role.
Garcia seems to have a slight edge, having served in the position for several months last season. Meanwhile, the team has brought in veteran lefty Jalen Beeks to bolster the bullpen depth, though he's not in the mix for closing duties.
As spring training progresses, Garcia and Martin have had mixed results. Garcia, in three outings, has allowed two earned runs over 2.1 innings.
Martin, who will celebrate his 40th birthday in June, has given up one earned run in two innings. The Rangers' strategy so far has been to rotate relievers in save situations.
In a recent 7-6 victory over the Athletics, Luis Curvelo secured the save, striking out two and allowing a hit. Aidan Anderson was the closer in a previous game against the Padres.
With only ten games left in spring training, manager Skip Schumaker and pitching coach Jordan Tiegs face the challenge of finding reliable high-leverage options. Whether Garcia or Martin will emerge as the go-to closer remains to be seen, but the clock is ticking as opening day approaches.