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# Rangers Claim Right-Hander Zak Kent Off Waivers From Cardinals
- URL: https://theprospecttimes.com/rangers-claim-right-hander-zak-kent-off-waivers-from-cardinals/
- Published: 2026-01-10T05:32:03.000Z
- Updated: 2026-01-10T21:23:11.000Z
- Description: The Texas Rangers have claimed RHP Zak Kent off waivers from the Cardinals
- Author: The Prospect Times
- Tags: Zak Kent

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](https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kentza01.shtml?ref=theprospecttimes.com) 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.