Both were slotted to start the season in the rotation, and neither was able to start a single game for the Rangers in 2025. Injuries can and will happen, so the more quality arms in the stable, the better.
Rocker and Latz Get Relief
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – SEPTEMBER 19: Kumar Rocker #80 of the Texas Rangers pitches during the second inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Globe Life Field on September 19, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
As the Rangers’ roster is assembled currently, it appears that Jacob Latz or Kumar Rocker will round out the rotation to start the season. Despite the name recognition of Rocker, Latz looks to be the frontrunner, as he posted fantastic numbers last year in multiple roles.
There are still several question marks around Rocker. His last game with the big league club came on July 31. Over the final two months of the season, he only pitched in two games for Triple-A Round Rock; he had one outing on August 7 and then another one that lasted only 2.1 innings on September 18.
The Rangers organization has been quiet as to what was really going on with Rocker at the end of the season. Was it mental, mechanical, physical, or some form of more than one? In any case, it will be interesting to see how he comes into spring training.
With the acquisition of Gore, there will be less pressure on both Rocker and Latz, which should free them up to compete and do their thing.
A Quality Lefty
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 27: MacKenzie Gore #1 of the Washington Nationals pitches during the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Thursday, March 27, 2025 in Washington, District of Columbia. (Photo by Rob Tringali/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Gore is not only a great pitcher who will add to the Rangers’ already strong rotation, but he is a near-perfect fit for what Texas needed.
Last season, only 38 Texas starts came from a lefty. Of those, Corbin, who is no longer with the team, made 30, and Latz added eight. With Latz and a healthy Bradford getting their starts on the bump, now, along with Gore, the Rangers are set to not only have a top-tier rotation, but one that is more balanced.
In 2023, the Rangers had lefties Andrew Heaney, MartÃn Pérez, and, after the trade deadline, Jordan Montgomery starting from the left side. During the team’s magical playoff run, pairing the righty Eovaldi with the lefty Montgomery was the perfect formula.