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Deciding who stays and who goes from Rangers impending options decisions

The Texas Rangers have a trio of veterans with contract options for 2027, and while they don't have total say over these players' futures, deciding who to keep and who to let walk is crucial.

By Stephen Parello · Nolan Writin'

Published: Monday, 5 October 2026 at 11:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Stephen Parello evaluates whether the Texas Rangers should exercise mutual contract options on three veteran players.
Parello recommends declining Joc Pederson's one-year, $18.5 million mutual option to free up roster flexibility.
The writer suggests declining Kyle Higashioka's $7 million option due to defensive decline and existing catcher depth.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Stephen Parello analyzes the Texas Rangers' upcoming contract decisions for three players holding mutual options ahead of the 2027 season. The franchise faces choices regarding designated hitter Joc Pederson, catcher Kyle Higashioka, and relief pitcher Jakob Junis following a disappointing campaign.

Parello argues that Texas should decline Pederson's $18.5 million option to open up designated hitter flexibility and let Higashioka leave rather than exercising his $7 million option. In contrast, the writer recommends exercising Junis's $5 million option to provide middle-relief depth.

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Deciding who stays and who goes from Rangers impending options decisions

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