Daniel Robert: The Texas Rangers’ Unexpected Ace
The Texas Rangers have been diligently working on bolstering their bullpen for the upcoming season, but amidst all the signings and trades, a surprising figure emerges as a potential breakout star. R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports recently scoured through each MLB team in search of hidden gems, and for the Rangers, relief pitcher Daniel Robert caught his eye.
Last season, the Texas bullpen fell short of expectations, ranking 26th in the league with a 4.41 staff ERA. This underperformance prompted significant roster changes, with the addition of six new relievers. However, amidst the flurry of new faces, there lies an opportunity for a player like Daniel Robert to make his mark.
At 30 years old, Robert’s journey to the MLB has been anything but conventional. Drafted in the 21st round back in 2017 by the Rangers, he has steadily progressed through their farm system, showcasing glimpses of promise along the way. Despite a setback in 2022 where he struggled with control and gave up hits, Robert has shown resilience and improvement in subsequent years.
After a solid showing in the minors, Robert finally made his MLB debut in July of 2024, impressing with a 3.86 ERA across three outings. While he was sent back down shortly after, the stage is set for him to potentially secure a permanent spot in the Majors.
As the new season approaches, Robert’s performance in spring training will be crucial in determining his fate. Despite early struggles in limited appearances, he remains a contender for an Opening Day roster spot. With the clock ticking, Robert faces a pivotal moment in his career as he strives to solidify his place in the big leagues.