Kumar Rocker to Debut for Rangers on Thursday

The Texas Rangers are promoting their top pitching prospect, Kumar Rocker, to make his MLB debut on Thursday against the Seattle Mariners. Rocker, 24, has posted impressive numbers since returning from Tommy John surgery, with a 1.96 ERA and 55 strikeouts over 36 2/3 innings through various minor league levels. Originally drafted by the Mets in 2021 but unsigned due to medical concerns, Rocker was later picked third overall by the Rangers in 2022. His rapid recovery and performance have earned him a spot in the Rangers' rotation, potentially setting him up for a key role in the team's 2025 plans. Rocker joins former Vanderbilt teammate Jack Leiter in the Rangers' rotation, highlighting the organization's investment in young pitching talent.