The Texas Rangers are facing a crucial decision that could shape their bullpen's future. One of their top relievers from the 2025 season, Shawn Armstrong, is a free agent and wants to return to the team. But will the Rangers make a move to bring him back?
According to Jeff Wilson of DLLS Sports, Armstrong is keen to re-sign with the Rangers. Wilson suggests that the 35-year-old reliever is likely seeking a two-year deal, which is a significant commitment for a player of his age. But here's where it gets interesting: Armstrong's performance in 2025 was exceptional, and it might just be the key to the Rangers' bullpen revival.
Last season, Armstrong pitched a career-high 74 innings for the Rangers, boasting an impressive 2.31 ERA (3.07 FIP). He struck out 26.1% of batters while maintaining a low 7.0% walk rate, and even contributed nine saves. What's more, he limited hard hits, as evidenced by his 34.2% hard-hit rate.
Armstrong's arsenal includes a 93.5 mph fastball, a low-90s cutter, a mid-90s sinker, and a mix of mid-80s off-speed pitches like the sweeper and slurve. He effectively utilizes all his pitches, except for the slurve, which he uses less frequently.
With the Rangers' bullpen in need of a rebuild, re-signing Armstrong could be a smart move. The team lost several key relievers to free agency this offseason, including Josh Sborz, Jacob Webb, Danny Coulombe, Phil Maton, Chris Martin, and Hoby Milner. Armstrong, who led the Rangers' bullpen with 1.3 fWAR and 1.5 bWAR in 2025, could provide much-needed stability and experience. And with a two-year deal, the Rangers would have one less bullpen concern for the 2027 season.
Armstrong's journey in MLB began with the Cleveland Indians in 2015, where he spent parts of three seasons, posting a solid 3.53 ERA with 38 strikeouts in 43 1/3 innings. He was then traded to the Seattle Mariners during the 2017/18 offseason, where he had a brief stint of success before struggling in 2019.
After being claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Orioles, Armstrong had an up-and-down experience. He had a rough 2019 but bounced back in 2020 with a stellar 1.80 ERA during the COVID-19-shortened season. However, his performance dipped again in 2021, leading to a trade to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he finished the season.
Armstrong's journey continued with a minor league deal with the Miami Marlins, but he quickly found himself back in the Rays organization. He excelled in Tampa Bay, posting sub-2.00 ERAs in 2022 and 2023. However, he was traded again, this time to the St. Louis Cardinals, who designated him for assignment after a short stint. He ended up with the Chicago Cubs, but his performance wasn't as dominant.
Should the Rangers bring back Armstrong? It's a question that divides opinions. On one hand, his age and injury history might be a concern. On the other, his recent success and the Rangers' bullpen needs make him an attractive option. What do you think? Is Armstrong the missing piece for the Rangers' bullpen puzzle, or should they look elsewhere? Share your thoughts in the comments!
