The Texas Rangers have made a significant roster move by claiming outfielder Dairon Blanco off waivers from the Kansas City Royals. This decision was announced on Sunday, following the placement of left-hander Jordan Montgomery on the 60-day injured list to accommodate Blanco on the roster.
Blanco, a 32-year-old Cuban player, was designated for assignment by Kansas City just last week. Over his four-year career in Major League Baseball (MLB), he has appeared in 171 games, posting a batting average of .257 with seven home runs and 34 runs batted in. Notably, Blanco has demonstrated impressive speed on the bases, successfully stealing 59 bases out of 73 attempts. His 64 appearances as a pinch-runner since 2022 lead all players in the majors.
In the 2023 season, Blanco played for the Triple-A Omaha team, where he maintained a batting average of .253 and recorded 32 stolen bases. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively adds depth to the Rangers’ outfield as they look to enhance their performance in the upcoming season.
Impact of Montgomery’s Injury
Montgomery’s placement on the injured list comes after he underwent a second elbow reconstruction surgery. The left-handed pitcher had recently signed a one-year contract with the Rangers, indicating their commitment to his recovery and future contributions.
Montgomery played a crucial role in the Rangers’ success during the 2023 season, which culminated in the team’s first World Series championship. After joining the Rangers at the trade deadline, he recorded a 4-2 win-loss record with a 2.79 earned run average (ERA) across 11 regular-season games. Montgomery also excelled in the postseason, winning two games in the American League Championship Series, including the pivotal Game 7 against the Houston Astros.
After a successful season with Texas, Montgomery entered free agency and signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he struggled in 2024, finishing with an 8-7 record and a 6.23 ERA. His overall MLB career spans eight seasons, during which he has played for the New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers, and Arizona Diamondbacks, compiling a record of 46 wins and 41 losses with a 4.03 ERA in 166 games.
The Rangers’ current roster moves reflect a strategic approach as they navigate player health and team dynamics, aiming to build on their recent successes while managing the challenges posed by injuries.
