Texas Rangers Add Veteran Outfielder on Minor-League Deal
The Texas Rangers have bolstered their outfield depth by signing veteran outfielder Kevin Pillar to a minor-league contract with an invitation to Major League spring training. The team announced the move on Sunday, just before their spring training matchup against the Chicago Cubs.
Pillar, 36, brings over a decade of MLB experience, having debuted in 2013 with the Toronto Blue Jays after being selected in the 32nd round of the 2011 MLB Draft. Last season, he split time between the Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Angels, posting a combined .229/.291/.377 slash line with eight home runs and 45 RBIs. His performance improved with the Angels, where he hit .236/.291/.378 with seven home runs and 41 RBIs.
Known for his versatility, Pillar played all three outfield positions last season and even logged a couple of games as a designated hitter. If he makes Texas’ roster at any point in 2025, the Rangers would become the 10th team of his career. Over his time in the majors, he has compiled a .255/.293/.406 career slash line, with 114 home runs and 468 RBIs. He also ranks among the top 15 active outfielders in innings played (10th, 9,301.2) and outfield assists (14th, 53).
Pillar’s signing provides insurance for the Rangers, particularly with Wyatt Langford currently sidelined due to an oblique injury. Texas has seen how oblique injuries can linger—center fielder Leody Taveras missed the start of the 2023 season with a similar issue. If Langford’s recovery takes longer than expected, Pillar could serve as a reliable backup option.
His addition also creates competition within the Rangers’ outfield. Should everyone remain healthy, one player who may be impacted the most is Dustin Harris. The young center fielder, a Top 30 prospect in the Rangers’ organization, made a brief MLB debut last season. With a strong spring, Pillar could challenge Harris for a roster spot as Texas finalizes its Opening Day lineup.
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