Texas Rangers General Manager Ross Fenstermaker offered an in-depth look at the organization’s pitching development and prospect progress during a Spring Breakout broadcast, highlighting both individual performances and the broader philosophy shaping the club’s future.

Fenstermaker pointed to left-hander Dalton Pence as one of the day’s standout performers, noting his ability to miss bats and recover from early adversity.

“Yeah, he's, uh, he's had a great camp so far, obviously building off last year,” Fenstermaker said. “Mid-90s velo from the left side with some deception and a four-pitch arsenal… lost it for a little bit there in the second, but refound it and missing a lot of bats today. Exciting to see.”

Pence’s resilience stood out as much as his raw stuff. After allowing early traffic on the bases, he regrouped quickly to regain control.

“Those situations are a challenge for anybody, but, you know, you got to bounce back there,” Fenstermaker said. “Figure out how you make pitches, execute in that situation… he’s got swing-and-miss stuff working today.”

The Rangers have also been intentional in developing pitchers like Pence beyond their original roles. Fenstermaker emphasized the importance of long-term planning when transitioning players from relievers to starters.

“It starts with [the] amateur scouting group identifying the traits and the makeup… of somebody who could build towards starting in the pro game,” he said. “You layer that in over time… he’s added a few pitches… and continues to answer the bell every time we’ve challenged him.”

Beyond individual performances, Fenstermaker praised MLB’s Spring Breakout format for giving young prospects valuable exposure.

“I think this game is great,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for these guys to get some exposure that maybe they otherwise wouldn’t get… especially the younger guys.”

He added that even players not selected for the showcase can benefit from the experience as motivation.

“Obviously, you have somewhat limited opportunities for who you put in this game,” Fenstermaker said. “As they grow and progress in their career, hopefully it’s motivating if they’re not on this roster to be a part of it in the future.”

Fenstermaker also highlighted organizational risers like reliever Eric Loomis and versatile prospect Cam Cauley, both of whom impressed during camp.

“He had a great year last year… a strike thrower, unique fastball characteristics, deception, with a really good slider,” Fenstermaker said of Loomis.

On Cauley, he added: “He’s had a great camp… maintained his explosiveness, his athleticism… and had really quality at-bats.”

Fenstermaker stressed that exposure to big league environments is critical for prospects nearing the majors.

“I think the most important thing is he knows he belongs,” he said. “When that opportunity presents itself… he’s going to be able to contribute.”

The Rangers are also embracing evolving player trends, including the rise of two-way talents inspired by Shohei Ohtani.

“I think we’re going to see more organizations… attempt this,” Fenstermaker said. “We don’t put limits on our players… we want to explore it alongside of them and see what happens.”

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