In an intriguing veteran signing, the Texas Rangers have brought back a familiar face from their past – 41-year-old reliever Jesse Chavez. The well-traveled right-hander, who was originally drafted by Texas nearly 23 years ago, has agreed to a minor league contract with an invitation to Rangers spring training.
For Chavez, this marks a return to the organization where his professional baseball journey began. The Rangers selected him way back in the 42nd round of the 2002 amateur draft. Though he was later traded to the Pirates and made his MLB debut with them in 2008, Chavez eventually found his way back to Texas as a free agent in 2018.
A Veteran Presence
Over his 17-year major league career, Chavez has compiled a 51-65 record with a 4.25 ERA across 653 appearances, including 85 starts. He’s suited up for nine different teams, providing a versatile arm capable of pitching multiple innings out of the bullpen or making spot starts when needed.
Most recently, Chavez posted a solid 3.13 ERA over 46 relief outings for the Atlanta Braves in 2022. He was also a member of their World Series championship team in 2021.
“Jesse is the ultimate professional and competitor,” said Rangers GM Danny Macchio. “He’s been a tremendous teammate everywhere he’s been and can still get big league hitters out. We’re excited to bring him in to compete for a spot this spring.”
Battling for a Bullpen Role
Though his age might raise eyebrows, the ageless Chavez has shown little sign of slowing down. His funky, herky-jerky delivery and deep repertoire of pitches have allowed him to consistently get outs into his 40s.
In Texas, Chavez will be battling for a spot in a bullpen that has several openings behind closer Jose Leclerc. If he can replicate his 2022 form, the crafty vet could carve out a meaningful middle relief or long man role.
Chavez is the latest in a series of low-risk, high-upside signings by the Rangers this offseason as they look to bolster their pitching depth. The club also inked fellow MLB vets David Buchanan, Chad Wallach, and Cody Thomas to minor league deals with spring training invites.
An Opportunity to Impress
For Chavez and the other minor league signees, Rangers camp will present an opportunity to show they still belong at the game’s highest level. With some strong spring performances, any of them could play their way onto the Opening Day roster.
In Chavez’s case, making the team would add yet another surprising twist to a baseball life that’s come full circle – from a 42nd round draft pick by the Rangers in 2002 to a grizzled vet fighting for a job with that same franchise in 2023. If he can harness his veteran savvy and guile on the mound this spring, Chavez just might earn one more shot in the Texas sun.
