The Texas Rangers are now an even more alluring destination for free agents as a result of their recent World Series success. The team signed prominent players like Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, Jon Gray, Jacob deGrom, and Nathan Eovaldi in the last two offseasons, despite having numerous losing seasons before their championship run. The Rangers can now chase any free agent they want as a consequence. According to the New York Post, the Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Francisco Giants are the best teams vying for Los Angeles Angels two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani. The Rangers have a strong chance of signing Ohtani, as shown by the Post’s 6-1 odds.

The Rangers have demonstrated their willingness to spend big money on elite players by pursuing Ohtani since the middle of the season, especially after getting a taste of victory. Even though Ohtani’s right arm suffered a torn UCL in the last month of the season, he is still seen as a serious candidate for American League MVP. With a 3.14 ERA and a 10-5 win-loss record, he was a very successful pitcher. He was also a very good designated hitter, with a.304 batting average, 44 home runs, and 95 RBI.

Despite having surgery on September 19 to repair his torn UCL, Ohtani has stated that he will play as a designated hitter in 2024 and save his pitching for 2025. Ohtani, who will turn 30 in 2024, has a history of UCL strains and has had stem-cell and platelet-rich plasma injections as therapies. Despite this, he may still be able to contribute as a designated hitter, even if he is unable to pitch.

Including pre-arbitration salaries, arbitration estimates, and current contracts, the Rangers are expected to have a payroll of $210 million in 2024. This moves them closer to the $237 million first tax threshold in front of a possible Ohtani deal. But considering Ohtani’s talent, the Rangers might find it desirable to go beyond the luxury tax threshold, especially as they want to win a title for the first time in their history.