Texas Rangers prospect Josh Stephan impressed in the AFL
The Arizona Fall League (AFL) season wrapped up on Saturday, with the Surprise Saguaros falling short in a 3-2 loss to the Rafters in the AFL Championship game. Despite the loss, Texas Rangers pitching prospect Josh Stephan definitely made a mark on the AFL this season.
Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 185 pounds, Stephan turned heads with his performance in the AFL regular season, earning the honor of starting the championship game for the Saguaros.
The Saguaros are a collection of prospects from the Astros, Orioles, Guardians, Rangers, and Royals.
From South Grand Prairie High School, Stephan’s connection to the Rangers is deeply personal. Growing up just about 15 minutes from Globe Life Field and a lifelong Rangers fan, he signed with the team as an undrafted free agent in 2020 for $20,000. Fast forward to 2024, and Stephan showcased his talent in the Arizona Fall League. Not an easy feat as the ball is known to fly in Arizona.
Aiming for a Spot on the 40-Man Roster
In the 2024 regular season, Stephan’s time was limited due to injuries. Pitching for Double-A Frisco, he managed just 58.1 innings, recording a 4.94 ERA with 17 walks and 55 strikeouts. However, the AFL provided him with an opportunity to log more innings and leave a positive impression on the Rangers’ decision-makers.
Dominating the AFL
Stephan pitched 20 innings during the AFL season, finishing with an impressive 2.25 ERA—a feat even more noteworthy given the hitter-friendly Arizona climate. He led the league in innings pitched, posted the second-best ERA, and finished third in WHIP at 1.00.
Stephan’s stint in Arizona might be his last as part of the Rangers organization unless the team adds him to their 40-man roster to protect him from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft.
His performance in the AFL is a reminder of his potential and serves as a hopeful sign for an organization that has historically faced challenges in developing homegrown pitching talent.
The primary issue for Stephan has been maintaining his health. When healthy, he’s great.
Hoping for a Bright Future
As the Rule 5 Draft approaches (today), the decision looms for the Rangers: protect Stephan or risk losing him to another team. Adding him to the 40-man roster seems like a move worth making for a team that has had issues growing homegrown pitchers.
For Rangers fans, seeing Stephan thrive in a fully healthy season could be a welcome sight.
Update
The Texas Rangers did not protect Josh Stephan. He is now eligible to be drafted in the rule-5 draft in December. It is also still a possibility that he remains with the organization if he’s not selected by a team.