Only a few years ago, teams throughout MLB were examining how the Texas Rangers captured the 2023 World Series. Since then, the Rangers have returned to studying how other organizations construct successful rosters.

The Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers met in this year’s World Series. Their matchup was unusual because two small-market teams reached the final stage while MLB owners and the MLB Players Association continued fighting over the financial future of the sport.

Texas paid close attention to Milwaukee’s path toward the title. President of baseball operations Chris Young wants the Rangers to become younger and more athletic, which will probably require making the roster less expensive.

Ryan Thompson could become a useful addition to the Texas bullpen for 2027.

Thompson delivered numerous valuable innings during his time with the Arizona Diamondbacks. His contributions included helping Arizona reach the 2023 World Series, where the Diamondbacks faced the Rangers.

His entry into free agency creates another bullpen decision for Arizona after his effectiveness noticeably declined during the 2026 season.

The sidearm pitcher finished with a 4.43 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in 40.2 innings over 46 appearances with seven holds. His ERA represented his highest mark since 2020.

Thompson’s sinker has never relied on overwhelming velocity, but the pitch averaged below 90 mph during the season. His command also became considerably less dependable than it had been in previous years.

He remained highly effective through June before encountering substantial problems in July.

Thompson recorded a 9.00 ERA and 2.50 WHIP in 10 innings over 11 appearances during that month.

A back and hip injury then sent him to the Injured List. The issue ended Thompson’s season and denied him an opportunity to rebound from his difficult July.

Arizona could reasonably retain him on an inexpensive contract because his injury and disappointing performance will limit his market.

However, Thompson’s best seasons may already be behind him. The Diamondbacks will likely prioritize relievers such as Taylor Clarke or Jonathan Loáisiga rather than bringing him back.

Texas could take advantage of that uncertainty without depending on Thompson for the most important late-inning assignments.

His sidearm delivery would give the bullpen a different look and force opposing hitters to adjust after facing pitchers with more conventional release points.

Thompson understands how to prepare for a postseason race and pitch under pressure after contributing to Arizona’s 2023 run. That experience could benefit a Rangers bullpen likely to include younger pitchers still establishing their roles.

The Rangers would need to evaluate his back, hip and diminished command before completing any agreement. His difficult finish cannot be dismissed as a minor concern.

Still, an inexpensive contract would limit the financial risk. Thompson could compete for a middle-inning position, enter against hitters suited to his delivery and provide occasional coverage when other relievers require rest.

Texas needs affordable bullpen options capable of complementing its harder throwers. Thompson could satisfy that requirement while attempting to prove that his 2026 decline resulted from physical problems rather than permanent regression.