Rangers Secure Declan Cronin with Minor League Contract
The Texas Rangers have strengthened their roster by signing right-handed pitcher Declan Cronin to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to MLB Spring Training. This move comes after the Marlins released Cronin in September 2025.
Declan Cronin’s Recovery and Background
During his time with the Marlins, Cronin was a key player in the bullpen, making 56 appearances in 2024. He posted an ERA of 4.35 across 70 1/3 innings, demonstrating an ability to strike out opponents with over one strikeout per inning.
Unfortunately, Cronin suffered multiple injuries, including a knee issue that placed him on the Injured List (IL) at the end of the 2024 season. He subsequently faced a hip problem that sidelined him at the start of 2025. He was later placed on the Triple-A injured list in August due to complications possibly related to the injury that required Tommy John surgery. Cronin is expected to miss the entire 2026 season as he focuses on recovery.
Transaction History and Minor League Acquisitions
The Rangers also signed shortstop Richie Martin and right-handers Peyton Gray and Trey Supak to minor league contracts, each receiving spring training invitations.
- Richie Martin: Originally signed to a minor league deal in May, Martin has a career batting average of .258 over 79 games at Triple-A Round Rock. He has experience in the MLB, having played for the Baltimore Orioles from 2019 to 2022.
- Peyton Gray: Gray joined Texas this past offseason and had a promising run with a 3.84 ERA in 61 innings while playing for Triple-A Round Rock.
- Trey Supak: Supak has also solidified his position within the Rangers minor league system, finishing with a 3.55 ERA in 12 starts for Round Rock. He was originally drafted by the Pirates in 2014.
Looking Ahead
Although Cronin is anticipated to miss the upcoming season, the Rangers remain hopeful that he can emerge as a viable option for their bullpen in the future. With his previous performance with Miami, there is optimism about his potential contribution once he fully recovers.