The Texas Rangers brought in Joc Pederson primarily for his ability to excel against right-handed pitching, aiming to boost their offensive firepower. After an injury-shortened 2023 season, Pederson’s spring training in 2024 has not shown encouraging signs, raising questions about his readiness. Over eight games and 17 at-bats this spring, he has produced a .235 batting average with no home runs or RBIs, signaling potential struggles ahead as the regular season approaches.
The Case for a Contingency with Pederson’s Past and Present Numbers
Pederson’s career has revealed a clear platoon split, thriving against righties with a .238/.349/.501 slash line, including 121 home runs and 270 RBIs. Conversely, he has been a vulnerability against left-handed pitching, holding a .190/.266/.310 slash line and only nine home runs during his career. The Rangers have counted on Pederson’s bat especially because right-handed pitchers comprise roughly 80% of opposing starters, making his left-handed hitting more valuable in this context.
Last season was marred by a severe slump early on and a three-month absence due to a thumb injury. He finished 2023 with a .181/.285/.328 slash line, hitting nine home runs and driving in 26 runs. Notably, his numbers improved after his return, with a .224/.300/.406 line along with seven home runs and 20 RBIs. Texas committed to a two-year contract last offseason, anticipating his power hitting would return, but so far, that promise remains unfulfilled.
Andrew McCutchen as a Potential Support Option
To back up Pederson, the Rangers signed Andrew McCutchen to a minor league contract. The former National League MVP, known for his right-handed hitting, has performed well against lefties, batting .267/.353/.389 last year. McCutchen could potentially form a platoon duo with Pederson, which would allow the team flexibility if both players maintain their splits.
However, McCutchen’s results against right-handed pitching were weaker, with a .228/.326/.358 line, despite hitting 10 of his 13 home runs last year off right-handers. While not an ideal counterpart, McCutchen might serve as a versatile secondary option for the Rangers, especially given his experience in the outfield and ability to play the designated hitter when rotations are necessary.
Considering Additional Moves to Strengthen the Lineup
With Pederson’s slow start now extending beyond the early stage of spring training, Rangers manager Skip Schumaker has hinted at increasing the importance of game results and player performances. He has also emphasized rotating the designated hitter spot to keep players fresh and competitive. This environment suggests the Rangers may need to act if Pederson’s struggles continue.
Given these circumstances, it could be prudent for the Rangers to explore adding another left-handed bat to their roster. Such a move would increase competition during spring training and provide depth and consistency against right-handed pitching. This potential addition might help mitigate reliance on Pederson alone and prevent vulnerabilities against lefties.
Implications for Rangers’ Season and Next Steps
The uncertainty surrounding Joc Pederson’s form could have significant effects on the Rangers’ offensive strategy this season, especially given their dependence on his power against right-handers. If Pederson does not regain his previous productivity, the team’s ability to capitalize on favorable platoon matchups may suffer.
Pursuing a backup or complementary left-handed hitter could stabilize the lineup, provide insurance against injury or prolonged slumps, and maintain competitive pressure for starting roles. As spring training progresses, the Rangers’ decisions on Pederson’s usage and potential roster adjustments will be critical in shaping their depth and overall performance in the 2024 campaign.
