Texas Rangers Reinforce Bullpen with Local Lefty Hoby Milner
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the Texas rangers have added a familiar face to their bullpen, inking a one-year contract with left-handed pitcher Hoby Milner, according to reports from MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. While financial details remain undisclosed, the move signifies a strategic reinforcement for the Rangers’ pitching staff. Milner, represented by MVP Sports Group, joins a 40-man roster already at capacity, necessitating a corresponding roster move—either a trade or a player designation for assignment—to finalize the signing.
Milner’s journey to Arlington is a homecoming of sorts. A Dallas native and University of Texas alumnus, the former Longhorn began his professional career with the Philadelphia Phillies, a seventh-round draft pick in 2012. His MLB career has spanned several teams, including brief stints with the Tampa Bay Rays and Los Angeles Angels, before ultimately finding a home in Milwaukee with the Brewers after signing a minor league contract in 2020.
Milner’s four seasons with the brewers showcased his potential. Despite a 5.40 ERA in 2021, his impressive strikeout and walk rates convinced the brewers to retain him—a decision that proved shrewd. from 2022 to 2023, he became a pivotal part of manager Craig Counsell’s bullpen, compiling a remarkable 2.79 ERA over 129 innings—a workload surpassed by only 30 other relievers league-wide. His performance was marked by a 23.5% strikeout rate and a remarkably low 5.3% walk rate. Left-handed batters struggled mightily against him, posting a dismal .199/.259/.284 batting line across 223 plate appearances.
While Milner’s 2024 statistics showed some regression—a 4.73 ERA and a noticeable advancement in left-handed batters’ performance (.286/.290/.467)—his underlying numbers remained strong. He maintained a dominant 27:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio, showcasing his control and ability to dominate hitters with a platoon advantage. His nearly 24% strikeout rate and ground ball percentage exceeding 50% highlight his continued effectiveness. he also tied his career high with 64 ⅔ innings pitched. The increase in ERA was largely attributed to a higher average on balls in play and a decrease in runners left on base.
Despite his strong peripherals, the Brewers opted not to tender Milner a contract, projecting his arbitration salary at $2.7 million. This decision ultimately benefited Milner, securing him a guaranteed contract with his hometown team at age 34. This signing marks the Rangers’ second bullpen acquisition in as many weeks, following the addition of another key reliever (name withheld for brevity).
The Rangers’ move to bring Milner home is a testament to his talent and experience. His familiarity with the Texas baseball scene and his proven ability to dominate hitters make him a valuable asset to the team’s postseason aspirations. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for the Rangers and their newly bolstered bullpen.
Diamondbacks reinforce Bullpen with Strategic Offseason Moves
The Arizona diamondbacks are making notable strides in bolstering their pitching staff this offseason. Facing the potential loss of key relievers to free agency, the team has already secured a valuable addition, demonstrating a proactive approach to maintaining a competitive edge in the upcoming season.
The team’s general manager, Chris Young, and his front office are acutely aware of the potential departures of several key bullpen arms. The Diamondbacks could see Kirby Yates, David Robertson, José Leclerc, and josé Ureña all test the free agent market. To counter this, the team has already signed a significant piece to the puzzle.
The Diamondbacks have signed Jacob Webb to a $1.25 million contract. Webb’s signing, following his somewhat surprising non-tender by the Orioles, represents a shrewd acquisition for Arizona. This move signals the team’s commitment to building a strong and reliable bullpen.
“They’ll start with a pair of affordable veterans who can work in the middle innings,” a source close to the team indicated,hinting at further additions to come. This strategy suggests a focus on experienced, cost-effective pitchers to fill crucial roles in the middle relief.
The Diamondbacks’ proactive approach to addressing their bullpen needs underscores their ambition for the upcoming season.With the addition of Webb and the promise of further signings, the team is clearly positioning itself for a strong contention.
Texas Adds Reliable Arm: Milner Returns Home to Bolster Rangers Bullpen
The Texas Rangers made a notable move this offseason, adding veteran lefty reliever Hoby Milner to their bullpen on a one-year deal. This homecoming for the Dallas native brings much-needed experience and consistency to a team looking to contend in 2024.
A Local Product Returns Home
Senior Editor: Welcome, Brian! Hoby Milner is a name Texas Rangers fans should get familiar wiht. Can you shed some light on his background and what he brings to Arlington?
Brian Kenny, MLB Analyst: Absolutely. Hoby Milner is a classic example of a pitcher who developed late and emerged as a valuable asset. He’s from Dallas, went to the University of Texas, and after bouncing around the minor leagues, he finally found his stride with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Building a Strong Bullpen: Why Milner is a Key Acquisition
Senior Editor: The rangers lost some key bullpen arms in the offseason. How does Milner fill that void, and what kind of role do you anticipate him playing?
Brian Kenny: Milner is exactly the kind of dependable lefty reliever every contender needs. he’s got a great track record of getting outs, particularly against left-handed hitters. We saw it in Milwaukee – he was consistently shutting down opposing lineups. The Rangers have some young arms with potential, but Milner brings veteran savvy and that much-needed experience to a high-pressure situation.
Analyzing Milner’s Strengths and 2024 Outlook
Senior Editor: Milner had some impressive seasons with the Brewers. What are his strengths as a pitcher, and how will those translate to success in texas?
Brian Kenny: Milner’s success comes from his astonishing command and ability to generate ground balls. He doesn’t overpower hitters, but he consistently hits his spots and lets his defense work for him. That’s going to play well in Texas – a park known for favoring hitters. His low walk rate is crucial – he doesn’t give away free passes.
Senior Editor: We’re looking forward to seeing Hoby Milner pitch at Globe Life Field. Thanks for your insights, Brian.
Brian Kenny: my pleasure. It should be an exciting season for the Rangers and their bullpen.
