SURPRISE, Ariz. — Josh Sborz is deep into his second year of rehabilitation after shoulder surgery put his pitching career on hold. The 32-year-old right-handed reliever is aiming to return to the Texas Rangers bullpen during spring training as he works to regain his strength and velocity.
This latest phase of recovery has brought cautious optimism. Sborz described his arm as feeling significantly better, free of pain, and capable of handling everyday activities, signaling an important step forward in his comeback effort.
Injury Impact and Career Interruptions
Sborz’s road back has been far from smooth. Since throwing the final out of the World Series three seasons ago, he has pitched only 16⅓ major league innings, missing an entire season due to surgery and a prolonged recovery process that diminished his fastball speed. Despite rest periods, his velocity stalled in the low 90s, which forced the Rangers to non-tender him amid budget constraints.
After entering free agency for the first time, Sborz acknowledged the harsh realities of his role, recognizing that relief pitchers are often considered replaceable assets in a team’s bullpen strategy.
Rehabilitation Insights and Adjustments
Throughout the offseason, Sborz worked with physical therapists in Arizona to explore different methods aimed at restoring his pitching mechanics and arm strength. He identified posture issues linked to tight chest muscles and admitted to under-eating during rehab, both factors that hindered his recovery.
By late November, Sborz started feeling healthier, although the timing coincided with the Rangers’ decision to release him alongside several other players, including Adolis GarcĂa, Jonah Heim, and Jacob Webb.
Undeterred, Sborz continued his rehab independently, adapting to the absence of club facilities by training at local gyms and throwing to a high school catcher at a Dallas-area football field. This personal commitment culminated in signing a minor league contract with the Rangers in January, motivated largely by familiarity and a mutual desire for a second chance.
Mutual Respect and Future Prospects with the Rangers
Sborz emphasized the positive relationship maintained with the Rangers’ organization despite previous setbacks, noting that both sides shared disappointment over the slowed recovery but remain hopeful about what lies ahead.
The Rangers, currently rebuilding their bullpen for a second consecutive year, have several candidates competing for limited slots, including veterans and prospects. Within this competitive landscape, Sborz’s successful return could provide the team with an experienced and effective reliever.
Velocity Recovery and Spring Training Goals
Historically, Sborz was known for a fastball averaging nearly 97 mph during the Rangers’ improbable World Series run, a velocity unmatched by last year’s bullpen members. Although his fastball velocity dipped to 95.1 mph in 2024, it remained effective when complemented by his curveball in limited appearances.
Sborz’s approach to this spring training centers on gradual improvement rather than quick leaps in performance. He seeks incremental gains, aiming to throw consistently in the low 90s and build toward higher velocity over time without forcing sudden progress.
My arm feels a lot better,
Sborz said Wednesday morning.
It doesn’t hurt. I can pick my kids up. I can put a plate away in the cabinet. I’m feeling better in all facets of life.
I’m a reliever,
Sborz acknowledged,
so I’m pretty replacable.
I think a lot of the front office, coaches and staff were all kind of upset, too, that it didn’t go the way that we wanted it to,
Sborz said.
We left on good terms and I think the opportunity is still there.
My approach to this spring training is slow gains,
Sborz said.
Not to expect to throw 90 in bullpens and then go throw 97. If I can throw a live today at 92-93, next one 92-93, then next game 93-94, that’s all I’m looking for. I’m not looking for a lot early. I just want a slow build.
Implications for the Texas Rangers and What Lies Ahead
Sborz’s ability to regain health and velocity carries significant implications for the Rangers as they seek reliable bullpen arms. Should he achieve consistent performance this spring, he could re-enter the major league roster and contribute valuable innings in relief roles.
His commitment to overcoming injury setbacks and the organization’s willingness to offer him another opportunity illustrate a shared belief in his potential impact during the upcoming season.
