Rangers Claim Right-Hander Zak Kent Off Waivers From Cardinals

The Texas Rangers are bringing back a familiar face to their pitching staff. The club announced Friday that they have claimed right-hander Zak Kent off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals.

Because the Rangers already had a vacancy on their 40-man roster, no corresponding move was required to finalize the transaction.

A Full-Circle Return

Kent, who turns 28 in February, returns to the organization that originally drafted and developed him. A mainstay in the Rangers’ system since 2019, Kent rose through the ranks with stints at Double-A Frisco in 2021 and 2022. Texas previously signaled their belief in his upside by adding him to the 40-man roster for Rule 5 protection in late 2022.

His tenure with Texas ended in March 2024, when he was traded to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for international bonus pool money.

2025 Performance Review

Kent made his MLB debut with Cleveland in 2025. In his debut campaign, he posted a 4.58 ERA across 17 2/3 innings, allowing nine earned runs.

His arsenal featured a four-seam fastball and a sinker—both averaging approximately 93 mph—complemented by a slider and curveball.

While his MLB sample size was small, his Triple-A production in 2025 was elite. Over 38 innings at the highest minor-league level, Kent maintained a 2.84 ERA.

Strikeout Rate: 31.4% Walk Rate: 13.2% Ground Ball Rate: 54%

While he has occasionally struggled with control, his ability to generate both misses and ground balls provides the Rangers with a high-ceiling relief option.

The Cardinals originally claimed Kent from Cleveland in early December but designated him for assignment this week to clear space for left-hander Justin Bruihl.

For Texas, Kent represents a low-risk, high-reward addition. He still has a minor-league option remaining, allowing the Rangers to shuttle him between Arlington and Triple-A Round Rock.