One of the offseason’s top free-agent catchers is off the board. Veteran backstop Kyle Higashioka has signed a two-year contract with the Texas Rangers, with a mutual option for the 2027 season. According to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News, Higashioka will make $13.5 million in 2025 and 2026 and would make another $7 million in the third year. The 34-year-old catcher is coming off a career-best season in 2024 and will aim to build on that momentum in Arlington.
Gettin’ Higgy wit it!
We’ve signed C Kyle Higashioka to a two-year contract with a mutual option for 2027. pic.twitter.com/5j72Znb3Op
— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) December 3, 2024
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Veteran Catcher Kyle Higashioka Signs With Rangers
Higashioka is entering his ninth MLB season, having debuted with the New York Yankees in 2017. Initially called up as an injury replacement for Gary Sánchez, he spent six years in New York, often overshadowed by other catchers. Then, in December 2023, he was a piece in the blockbuster trade that sent superstar Juan Soto to the Yankees, marking a fresh start for Higashioka with the San Diego Padres.
That change of scenery paid off. Higashioka stepped up midseason when Luis Campusano went down with an injury, solidifying his role as the Padres’ primary catcher. He delivered a scorching June, hitting .275 with 8 home runs, 19 RBI, and a 1.131 OPS, fueling his breakout year. Across the 2024 campaign, Higashioka posted a .220/.263/.476 slash line with 17 homers, 45 RBI, and a .739 OPS (101 OPS+). His 1.4 WAR marked the first time he exceeded the 1.0 threshold in his career.
Beloved by Padres fans for his clutch moments and laid-back demeanor, Higashioka also earned the trust of the pitching staff with his steady defense and leadership. Now, he’s set to bring that same energy and production to Texas, where he’ll look to prove that last season was no fluke. For a catcher who spent much of his career flying under the radar, Higashioka’s recent resurgence serves as a reminder that perseverance and opportunity can pay off in a big way. Now, he’ll aim to carry that momentum into another productive season as he builds on his career year.
Photo Credit: © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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