Trio of Texas Rangers Players Reject Options to Hit Free Agency

Major Roster Changes in Texas

The Texas Rangers announced on Saturday that three players have declined their mutual options with the team. Designated hitter Joc Pederson, catcher Kyle Higashioka, and right handed pitcher Jakob Junis are all now eligible for free agency.

All three players made their decisions official following the end of the season, leaving the Texas franchise with roster spots to fill ahead of the open market.

Joc Pederson Enters Free Agency

Joc Pederson turned down an 18 million dollar option that did not include a buyout. That option was part of a two year contract worth 37 million dollars. The 34 year old, who is a two time All Star, hit .235 with 26 home runs and 53 RBI across 136 games this season.

His campaign was cut short on Sept. 12 when he suffered a fractured left wrist. The injury occurred after he was hit by a 93.3 mph fastball from Arizona pitcher Brandon Pfaadt, and Pederson did not return to action after that date.

Higashioka and Junis Reject Options

Kyle Higashioka turned down a 7 million dollar option and will receive a 1 million dollar buyout. This completes a two year deal worth 13.5 million dollars. The 36 year old catcher batted .218 with seven home runs and 18 RBI in 56 games this year.

Higashioka played his final major league game of the year on July 20 due to a right flexor strain. He later completed an injury rehabilitation assignment, playing 11 games at Triple A Round Rock from Sept. 4 to Sept. 20.

Jakob Junis declined a 5 million dollar option and gets a 1.25 million dollar buyout from his one year, 4 million dollar contract. The 34 year old finished with a 1-3 record and a 3.64 ERA in 52 relief outings.

Junis dealt with two separate injury spells. He was out from June 29 to July 18 with a hip impingement, and missed time from July 28 to Aug. 15 because of a left adductor strain.