The Texas Rangers have been in a bit of a predicament when it comes to their pitching staff for the better part of the last week.

Ever since Texas placed Jack Leiter on the 15-Day Injured List with a right ankle impingement, the team has had to fill his place in the starting rotation with Cal Quantrill, and, being in the midst of a 14-game, 14-day stretch, the bullpen has been quite taxed as well.

However, it appears as if the Rangers could be close to adding some relief for their strained staff.

Texas is nearing a deal to sign veteran right-handed pitcher Chris Paddack to a Major League contract. At the time of this writing, the club has not yet confirmed the move.

Paddack was designated for assignment by the Cincinnati Reds last week and elected free agency. In six appearances (three starts) for the Reds this season, Paddack posted a 6.04 ERA in 22.1 innings.

Prior to joining the Reds, Paddack made six appearances with the Miami Marlins earlier this year, pitching to the tune of a 7.63 ERA in 30.2 innings after signing a one-year $4 million contract with Miami in the off-season.

Back in 2019, Paddack had a strong rookie season for the San Diego Padres, putting up a 3.33 ERA in 26 starts.

However, through various injuries and bouncing around the league, Paddack has been unable to replicate that level of production since.

It’ll be interesting to see what kind of role the Rangers elect to have Paddack pitch in, given that he has the ability to both start and come out of the bullpen.

Texas could also very much use both a starter and someone who can give them some innings in relief.

It won’t be very hard for the Rangers to get Paddack on their 40-man roster after the club released infielder Blaine Crim recently so that he could pursue an opportunity in Asia.

Texas will still have to make a move to get Paddack on the active roster.

Paddack’s arrival comes at a good time for the Rangers, who just completed a four-game series sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays over the weekend.

Entering play on Monday, Texas is in sole possession of first place in the American League West despite being just 42-42 on the season. The Rangers open a three-game series with the Cleveland Guardians on Monday night.

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