Rangers Consider Trading Jonah Heim, Adolis Garcia
As the Texas Rangers approach the non-tender deadline on November 21, 2023, trade discussions surrounding catcher Jonah Heim and outfielder Adolis Garcia are heating up. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that both players could be at risk of being non-tendered if trades fail to materialize.
Background on Jonah Heim and Adolis Garcia
Jonah Heim and Adolis Garcia were crucial players during the Rangers’ 2023 World Series victory. Both athletes showcased strong performances in previous seasons but have faced challenges recently. Heim, a 2023 All-Star and four-win player, has struggled since then, managing a batting line of .217/.269/.334 over 255 games.
Similarly, Garcia, who received MVP votes and won a Gold Glove in 2023, has seen a decline, posting a .225/.278/.397 line in 289 games. Despite these downturns, the potential for both players to regain their past form adds intrigue to their trade value.
Current Trade Considerations
The Rangers are facing significant payroll constraints this offseason, making it essential for them to assess their options carefully. Shopping Heim and Garcia allows the team to potentially recover value rather than risk non-tendering these players without compensation.
Projected Salaries and Trade Viability
- Jonah Heim: Projected to earn $6 million in 2026, Heim’s lower salary enhances his trade appeal, particularly among budget-conscious teams.
- Adolis Garcia: On the other hand, Garcia is projected for a $12.1 million salary, which may deter teams due to budget constraints.
Potential Trade Partners
Several teams may express interest in Heim, given the scarcity of quality catchers in the league. Notable potential suitors include:
- Tampa Bay Rays
- San Diego Padres
- Houston Astros
- Philadelphia Phillies
Conversely, Garcia’s higher salary and recent performance might make it more challenging to find a trading partner. Teams looking for right-handed outfielders may view him as less appealing compared to other options in free agency.
Rangers’ Future Plans
If the Rangers decide to trade or non-tender Heim, they will need to identify a suitable backup catcher. They currently have Kyle Higashioka, but additional depth may be required. Garcia’s potential exit could be offset by controllable outfielders like Alejandro Osuna and Michael Helman, yet the team may still explore external acquisitions to bolster their lineup.
As the non-tender deadline approaches, the fate of Jonah Heim and Adolis Garcia will be pivotal in shaping the Rangers’ 2026 roster and payroll strategy.
