The Texas Rangers have emerged into the starting pitcher free-agent market after signing Kyle Gibson. The right-handed starting pitcher signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Rangers. This is a very similar structure to the last offseason where the Rangers signed Lance Lynn to a similar deal, hoping he would pitch them to the playoffs or be trade bait. On an already busy day with a Milwaukee Brewers-San Diego Padres trade, Jeff Passan reported the news of Gibson’s signing with the Rangers.
Right-hander Kyle Gibson and the Texas Rangers are in agreement on a three-year, $30 million deal, sources tell ESPN.
It’s the first move in what’s expected to be a very busy winter for the Rangers as they head into their new stadium. They need pitching. Gibson is first step.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 27, 2019
In 2019, Gibson had a great year for the Minnesota Twins producing a 13-7 record with a 4.84 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, and 160 strikeouts over 160 innings pitched. Gibson had one of his better seasons last year and will look to keep up the success with his new ballclub. Gibson has been a hit or miss player and hopefully, he can add consistency to his game and be a productive part of the Rangers rotation in 2020.
The 2019-20 Free Agent class has a ton of starting pitcher depth and the Rangers snuck in and grabbed Gibson before any of the big names have really fallen from the market. According to FanGraphs RosterResource depth charts, Gibson will slot in as the third starter. The Rangers rotation now features Mike Minor, Lynn, Gibson, Kolby Allard, and Brock Burke.
