Heath Criswell

Heath Criswell

Lifelong Rangers fan with a passion for the farm system. When I’m not covering minor league baseball, I’m enjoying time with my family and exploring the Rangers' next big stars.


The ABS Challenge System: coming to MLB in 2026

The ABS Challenge System: coming to MLB in 2026

The ABS Challenge System is coming to Major League Baseball in 2026. As a fan who appreciates both tradition and innovation, I believe it's a step in the right direction. This isn't just a rule change; it's a philosophical shift that promises to improve the sport without sacrificing the "human element" that makes baseball so compelling. For years, we've watched MLB test the waters with the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) system in minor league ballparks. This extensive testing, including its recen
Texas Rangers Name 2025 Minor League Award Winners
Minor league awards

Texas Rangers Name 2025 Minor League Award Winners

The Texas Rangers announced their 2025 minor league award winners, celebrating a group of players who were recognized for their standout performances across the organization's farm system this season. Cody Freeman - Tom Grieve Player of the Year Texas Rangers prospect Cody Freeman has wasted no time making his mark in the majors after a scorching-hot minor-league campaign. Through August 15, the infielder ranked among the Pacific Coast League leaders in batting average (1st), slugging percen
Rafe Perich leads the Hub City Spartanburgers to the SAL Championship series

Rafe Perich leads the Hub City Spartanburgers to the SAL Championship series

Hub City 10, Bowling Green (Rays) 5 The Hub City Spartanburgers, second-half champions, defeated the Bowling Green Hot Rods in a thrilling 10-5 extra-innings victory, earning their spot in the SAL Championship Series. Caden Scarborough, who had a strong season between Low-A Down East (2-5, 2.88 ERA) and High-A Hub City (0-0, 0.00 ERA in 13 IP), got the start. His final line against the Bowling Green Hot Rods was: * 3 IP * 3 R * 4 H * 3 BB * 2 SO * 8 swing & misses * 54/32 strikes A B
Spartanburgers’ SAL Division Series Game 1 Win Leads Rangers Affiliates – Sept 10, 202

Spartanburgers’ SAL Division Series Game 1 Win Leads Rangers Affiliates – Sept 10, 202

Hub City Spartanburgers Secure Game 1 Victory in SAL Division Series Hub City 3, Bowling Green (Rays) 1 The Hub City Spartanburgers have taken a 1-0 series lead in the SAL Division Series after a 3-1 victory over the Bowling Green Hot Rods last night. The win was fueled by a collective pitching effort that limited the Hot Rods' offense. The Spartanburgers' pitching staff combined for 14 strikeouts while issuing five walks, effectively minimizing damage. The walks did not contribute to Bowling