Josh Jung and the Texas Rangers avoided arbitration and Jung will make $2.9 million in 2026. (Source: The Prospect TImes on X)
Fantasy Impact: An All-Star and a fourth-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting in 2023, Jung has not been able to duplicate that year when he batted .266 with 23 home runs in 122 games. Last season, Jung played a career-high 131 games, but hit only 14 home runs and slashed .251/.294/.390. However, he did hit .271 with six home runs in 56 games after the All-Star break. Jung will be the starting third baseman for the Rangers in 2026 and could be an excellent candidate for a breakout season.
Category: Transactions
Josh Smith and the Texas Rangers avoided arbitration as the two sides settled on a $3.225 million contract for the 2026 season. (Source: Ari Alexander on X)
Fantasy Impact: Smith has played his first four seasons in Texas and has reached double digits in home runs and stolen bases in each of the last two years. He batted .251 last season with 10 home runs and 12 stolen bases in 563 plate appearances. Smith played everywhere except pitcher and catcher last season, so he will occupy his usual super-utility role in 2026. He should start nearly every day and hit towards the bottom of the Texas lineup.
Category: Transactions
