Rangers bring back World Series Hero on a Minor League Deal

The Texas Rangers announced Tuesday they are bringing back World Series hero right-handed pitcher Josh Sborz on a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training, the club confirmed.

After exploring the free-agent market this offseason and with the Rangers still looking to solidify their bullpen, the reunion became a mutually beneficial agreement. Sborz was non-tendered by the club months ago as part of an effort to create salary cap flexibility heading into the offseason.

Sborz etched his name into Rangers lore during the 2023 postseason, appearing in 10 games and tossing 12 innings with an astounding 0.75 ERA. His iconic final out secured the franchise's first World Series championship, forever solidifying his place in club history.

However, the path since that career-defining moment has been challenging for the 32-year-old righty. Sborz has battled injuries, and he hasn't pitched in a Major League game since 2024, when he made just 17 appearances, recording a 3.86 ERA over 16 1/3 innings.

His injury woes continued into November, when it was announced he underwent debridement surgery on his shoulder, effectively sidelining him for the start of the 2025 season. He began a rehab assignment in July with an aim to return mid-season but was ultimately shut down in early September for the remainder of the year.

Sborz will now join a competitive pool of veteran arms vying for a spot in the Rangers' 2026 bullpen. This marks a make-or-break season for the right-hander, with Spring Training providing crucial insights into his progress. Scouts and coaches will be closely watching for the same fastball velocity and breaking ball movement he displayed when fully healthy.

General Manager Chris Young and the Rangers organization need reliable relief pieces, and a healthy Sborz could be a vital component. However, the shadow of uncertainty regarding his shoulder's durability for an entire season will inevitably loom large.