The Texas Rangers signed outfielder Kevin Pillar on Sunday, adding to an already deep group of outfielders at spring training. While a majority of 26-man rosters are generally set, a team like the Rangers will be evaluating battles for a final spot on the bench. MLB.com’s Kennedi Landry believes the 36-year-old Pillar is a dark horse candidate to make the Opening Day roster.
“Pillar hit .229 with eight home runs, 45 RBIs and .667 OPS in 100 games between the White Sox and Angels in 2024, but had offseason thumb surgery and felt like he had more left in the tank before deciding not to retire. Most notably, he slashed .310/.352/.500 against left-handed pitching in 2024, while both Texas center fielders Evan Carter and Leody Tavares struggled against lefties last season. He could be a quality outfield addition to the Opening Day roster.”
Kevin Pillar Could Make a Surprise Push for the Rangers
Pillar’s strong numbers against left-handers suggest he could thrive on a team with a deeper outfield mix. He would provide the Rangers with a reliable platoon option against lefties, making him a solid fit despite their already crowded outfield. Wyatt Langford and Adolis García are expected to hold down the corner spots, with Evan Carter seeing time in center field and Leody Taveras serving as the fourth outfielder.
Taveras, however, has struggled against left-handed pitching, posting a career .231/.291/.320 slash line, including a rough .189/.270/.244 mark in 2024. Adding Pillar would also give the Rangers valuable depth, especially after Carter was limited to just 45 games last season due to back issues.
“He’s a really, really talented player that’s a good right-handed bat who plays all three outfield positions,” said manager Bruce Bochy. “I had Kevin [in San Francisco in 2019]. I mean, he’s a great teammate, plays full throttle, which is what you love about him. He’ll be competing for a job. I’ve been there [retiring and coming back]. This is what he loves to do. Sometimes when you back off, you miss it. It didn’t take him long to miss it, and he wanted to get back in.”
Bochy’s praise highlights both Pillar’s skill set and his mentality. His ability to play all three outfield positions gives the Rangers a versatile depth piece, while his right-handed bat makes him a natural platoon candidate. More importantly, Bochy emphasizes Pillar’s all-out playing style and leadership qualities, traits that could make him a strong clubhouse presence. His return to baseball after briefly stepping away suggests he still has the passion and drive to compete.
Main Photo: © Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
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