Rangers Make Robertson, Jankowski Signings Official; García Deal Still Pending
ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers, fresh off their World Series victory, have finalized contracts with veteran reliever David Robertson and outfielder Travis Jankowski but have yet to reach an agreement with AL Championship Series MVP Adolis García ahead of salary arbitration hearings.
Robertson has signed an $11.5 million, one-year deal which includes a $10 million salary for 2024 and a $7 million mutual option for 2025 with a $1.5 million buyout. Jankowski, known for his speed and versatility, secured a one-year contract worth $1.7 million after leading the Rangers with 19 stolen bases last season.
García remains the only one of eight arbitration-eligible Rangers without a deal. The two-time All-Star requested $6.9 million while Texas offered $5 million, creating the largest gap among the 23 MLB players exchanging salary proposals.
“Everybody knows the situation we’re in. Right now, we’re waiting on the hearing, and everything’s been the same as of right now,” García said through a translator before the team’s annual awards dinner Friday night.
General manager Chris Young mentioned ongoing positive discussions with García’s representatives, expressing optimism about the negotiation process.
Robertson’s deal was finalized post-physical. The right-hander, who has pitched for five teams since his return from Tommy John surgery, made 120 appearances over the past two seasons. With a career spanning 15 seasons, Robertson has a 63-42 record, 175 saves, and a 2.90 ERA in 793 regular-season games. He has also excelled in the postseason, with a 6-0 record and a 3.04 ERA in 42 games.
Jankowski, who hit .263 with a career-high 30 RBI in 107 games last season, made 63 starts across all three outfield positions.
Additionally, the Rangers traded outfielder J.P. Martínez to the Atlanta Braves for minor league right-hander Tyler Owens and designated right-handed pitcher Daniel Duarte for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster.
García, who will see a significant salary increase, made $747,760 last season and set career highs with 39 homers and 107 RBI. Despite his stellar performance, García expressed some frustration with the arbitration process but remains committed to the team.
“I just go out there and try to get the win for the team,” García said. “I’m here to help the club and be the same guy.”
Uncertain if an arbitration hearing can be avoided, García noted that the Rangers have not had one since 2000. Despite the contractual uncertainties, he is optimistic about the upcoming season and contributing to the team’s continued success.
“I feel good,” García said, adding that he resumed workouts after a brief rest following the season. “I’m still very happy and proud of what the team accomplished and look forward to helping my team repeat it.”
Leave a Reply