Rangers Sign Gavin Fien, Add Carl Edwards Jr.

The Texas Rangers have signed their first-round draft pick, shortstop Gavin Fien, selected 12th overall and already ranked as the team's fourth-best prospect by Baseball America. Fien, an 18-year-old from California, is recognized for his athleticism, character, and work ethic, and will begin his career at shortstop following a successful stint with Team USA's U18 squad. The Rangers also signed pitchers Mason McConnaughey, Ben Abeldt, and Julius Sanchez from later draft rounds. In a separate transaction, the Rangers added veteran right-hander Carl Edwards Jr., assigning him to Triple-A Round Rock after his recent transition from reliever to starter in the Mexican League. Edwards, who started his career with Texas and won a World Series with the Cubs, provides experienced depth to the organization. These moves highlight the Rangers' strategy of developing young prospects while supplementing their minor league system with veteran talent.