The Texas Rangers have recalled infielder Cody Freeman and selected the contract of pitcher Marco Gonzales from Triple-A Round Rock. To clear space on the active roster, Texas optioned infielder Cam Cauley and pitcher Ben Peoples to Round Rock. The team also designated pitcher Luis Curvelo for assignment to open a spot for Gonzales on the 40-man roster.
Following Jacob deGrom’s two-inning outing yesterday, the Rangers need a reliever capable of covering multiple innings. Since Peoples still has minor-league options available, the decision was made to send him down. Gonzales, meanwhile, returns to the Rangers for his second stint with the club this season and should provide some much-needed flexibility in the bullpen.
Freeman Gets Another Opportunity
The reasoning behind replacing Cauley with Freeman is less obvious. Freeman entered the spring competition for an Opening Day roster spot but has missed much of the season while dealing with back and neck issues. Still, the Rangers reportedly value the energy he brings to the clubhouse and on the field. With the lineup currently struggling to generate much momentum, the team may believe Freeman can provide a much-needed shot in the arm.
Curvelo Designated for Assignment
Curvelo, meanwhile, will head to the waiver wire, and it would not be surprising if he clears. His performance has declined considerably compared with last season, posting a 9.58 major league ERA and an 8.42 ERA at Triple-A. He has also struggled with control while allowing too many home runs, making his roster spot increasingly difficult to justify.
Overall, the moves give Texas additional pitching depth while providing Freeman another chance to make an impact as the Rangers look for ways to inject some energy into a struggling lineup.