Kyle Higashioka Signs Two-Year Deal with Rangers

The Texas Rangers have signed free agent catcher Kyle Higashioka to a two-year contract worth $13.5 million, with a mutual option for 2027. Higashioka, who set career highs with 17 homers and 45 RBIs in 2024 while playing for the San Diego Padres, provides the Rangers with experienced depth behind All-Star catcher Jonah Heim, who struggled in the previous season. The 34-year-old catcher spent the first seven years of his MLB career with the New York Yankees, where he became known for his defensive skills and ability to frame pitches. The Rangers hope Higashioka will support Heim's resurgence while also addressing the underperformance of last season's backups. This move comes after the Rangers experienced a decline in performance, finishing third in the AL West after their World Series victory in 2023.