In an effort to defend their World Series title, the Texas Rangers have had a wild offseason. The team must decide whether to bring back Aroldis Chapman or not while putting a priority on pitching. In the last two weeks, the Rangers have traded for and acquired a number of pitchers.

2019 All-Star Kirby Yates was signed by the Rangers to a one-year deal two weeks ago. After that, a week later, right-hand pitcher Tyler Mahle signed a two-year, $22 million contract.

Regretfully, the Rangers also lost two important pitchers from the previous campaign. After leading the team in saves with 22 during the previous season, closer Will Smith inked a one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals. In addition, the Pittsburgh Pirates signed former All-Star Martin Perez to a one-year contract.

What these moves signify for Aroldis Chapman and other free agent pitchers is a subject that has to be asked.

Texas acquired Chapman last season in exchange for pitcher Cole Ragans and prospect Roni Cabrera. At first, the deal appeared to be a success because Chapman was off to a great start in his first month with the team, striking out 14 batters in eight innings. With the playoffs drawing near, though, his play started to suffer as he lost command and gave walks.

Rangers supporters were angered by Chapman’s inability to keep runners off base. In nine postseason games, he gave up five walks with a 2.25 ERA. In just one and a third innings thrown against the Baltimore Orioles, Chapman walked four batters while giving up just one hit. His performance was inconsistent despite a minor improvement against the Houston Astros, as he gave up four hits and one home run in 3 2/3 innings.

There are still grounds for the Rangers to think about re-signing Chapman in spite of his difficulties. He pitched well last season for the team and possesses a strong fastball. He appeared in 30 games during the regular season and finished with a 3.72 ERA, 50 strikeouts in 29 innings, two wins, six holds, and four saves.

In terms of money, Chapman would be a better choice than Josh Hader, a free agent whose value might rise following Shohei Ohtani’s record-breaking contract. Keeping Chapman would help bridge the gap left by Will Smith and offer assurance behind primary closer Jose Leclerc.

All things considered, the Rangers may benefit from having Chapman on the roster. He is an accomplished pitcher with a solid track record. Going into the upcoming season, the team would benefit from having a quality left-handed reliever in the bullpen.