Former impact Guardians reliever hits free agency due to Rangers’ budget problems

Former Cleveland Guardians reliever Jakob Junis has officially hit free agency again after the Texas Rangers declined his mutual option. The Rangers paid Junis a $1.25 million buyout instead of picking up their portion of the $5 million mutual option for the upcoming season, releasing him onto the open market.

Junis completed the 2026 campaign with Texas, recording a 3.64 ERA across 54 1/3 innings alongside six saves and 18 holds. After previously pitching for Cleveland on a $4.5 million deal in 2025, Junis is now entering free agency for the sixth time in six years.