Rangers Secure Veteran Backstop Kyle Higashioka in Two-Year Deal
The Texas Rangers have bolstered their catching corps by signing veteran Kyle Higashioka to a two-year contract with a mutual option for 2027, addressing a key offseason need. The deal, whose financial terms remain undisclosed, sees the 34-year-old Higashioka move on from the San Diego Padres, where he enjoyed a career resurgence in 2024.
Higashioka, a first-time free agent recognized as one of the top catchers available this offseason, spent nine years honing his skills in the minors before finally securing a permanent Major League role with the New York Yankees in 2020."I always felt like I was going to get my chance," Higashioka told reporters, reflecting on his journey.
Though best known as Gerrit Cole’s personal catcher during his time in the Bronx, Higashioka found himself repackaged as part of the blockbuster Juan Soto trade to San Diego last winter.
In a surprising turn of events, Higashioka thrived with the Padres, eclipsing Luis Campusano as the starting catcher and setting a career high with 17 home runs, despite a low on-base percentage. His power-hitting prowess made him a valuable offensive asset, complementing his reputation for solid defensive skills and pitch-framing prowess.
“I worked really hard to improve my swing,” Higashioka explained, attributing his success to dedication and relentless practice.
Higashioka’s arrival in Texas solidifies the catching position behind Jonah Heim, the Rangers’ 2023 All-Star who struggled with a dip in production this past season. The signing allows manager Bruce Bochy to manage Heim’s workload more effectively, potentially extending his career and reducing the risk of injury.
While Higashioka arrives in Arlington ready to contribute, the question remains whether he can maintain his 2024 performance.
His defensive ability remains a known asset, but concerns over his pop time and past struggles with blocking pitches will undoubtedly be observed inconspicuously.
San Diego, meanwhile, now faces a catching conundrum with Higashioka’s departure. They are left with Campusano and Brett Sullivan, with top prospect Ethan Salas expected to eventually fill the void, but not until he gains valuable experience in the minors.
The Rangers, with a clear focus on securing a veteran presence behind the plate and now equipped with Higashioka’s experience and offensive potential, are well-positioned for a successful 2025 campaign.
