The Texas Rangers have had to make some moves after a player goes on the Injured List.
The Texas Rangers made a series of roster moves Thursday, highlighted by a pitching change that creates an opportunity years in the making.
Left-hander Robert García was placed on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his throwing shoulder, prompting the club to select the contract of right-hander Peyton Gray. To clear space on the 40-man roster, catcher Willie MacIver was designated for assignment.
García’s injury dates back to his most recent outing on April 16, when he exited early after experiencing discomfort. The Rangers initially held off on making a roster move, hoping rest would resolve the issue.
However, with lingering symptoms still present, the team opted for an Injured List stint, backdated to April 20. The move suggests a cautious approach as Texas navigates the early portion of the season and prioritizes long-term health.
In García’s absence, Gray steps into the spotlight with his first call to the majors approaching. The 30-year-old right-hander’s path to this moment has been anything but conventional.
After spending years grinding through minor-league systems, independent leagues, and winter ball circuits, Gray arrives in the big leagues on the strength of consistent performance and perseverance.
His results in 2026 have made the decision easier for Texas. Gray impressed during spring training with swing-and-miss stuff and has carried that momentum into Triple-A, where he has yet to allow a run across multiple appearances.
His ability to miss bats while limiting free passes has stood out, and his pitch mix, anchored by a low-90s fastball and a well-used changeup, has proven effective against upper-level hitters.
Meanwhile, MacIver’s designation reflects both roster pressure and a slow start at the plate. The 29-year-old backstop had been serving as organizational depth but struggled offensively in Triple-A to begin the year.
While his major-league experience remains limited, he has shown offensive upside in previous minor league seasons, which could draw interest from other clubs in need of catching depth.
With MacIver now in DFA limbo, the Rangers will have several days to determine his fate, whether through a trade or the waiver process. For now, Texas moves forward with its current catching tandem while adding a fresh arm in Gray, whose long journey has finally led him to the major leagues.
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