The Texas Rangers recently traded pitcher Dane Dunning to the Atlanta Braves. In return, they received minor league reliever José Ruiz and some cash. To make room for Dunning, the Braves designated Jesse Chavez for assignment.
This move signals a change for Dunning, who has struggled in recent seasons. Once a promising first-round pick, he showcased potential during the Rangers’ World Series run two years ago, posting a solid ERA of 3.70. However, last season, that number climbed to 5.31 over 95 innings. Despite this, Texas offered him a contract, but he had to accept a pay cut in arbitration, which is quite rare in the league.
Dunning didn’t make the Opening Day roster after giving up 10 runs in 11 Spring Training innings. The team hoped another franchise would claim him and take on his $2.66 million salary, but that didn’t happen. He spent most of the year in Triple-A, making a handful of MLB appearances where he allowed four runs over 10.2 innings.
With the injury struggles at Atlanta, Dunning has a better chance of finding a role with the Braves, who are dealing with several key injuries in their rotation. The Braves have had to rely on inexperienced pitchers like 20-year-old Didier Fuentes, who was clearly not ready for major league competition.
In contrast, Ruiz, the player headed to Texas, has had a rocky time lately. After performing commendably with a 3.71 ERA last season, he has allowed 17 runs over just 16.1 innings this year. Following a brief stint with the Braves after being claimed off waivers from the Phillies, Ruiz now joins the Rangers.
From a financial perspective, this trade helps the Rangers save money. Dunning has about $1 million left on his contract, while Ruiz is owed approximately $450,000. Though the figures are small by MLB standards, every dollar counts as the Rangers aim to stay below the $241 million luxury tax threshold. As it stands, their calculated payroll is just over $234 million.
In light of their playoff ambitions, the Rangers need to bring in at least one strong bat and possibly a power arm for their bullpen. Dunning was viewed as expendable, but others like Jon Gray and Adolis García could also be on the trading block if necessary.
Meanwhile, Jesse Chavez may find himself back on waivers yet again. Despite struggling this season, he has had success in the minors, suggesting he might return to Atlanta on a minor league deal if he doesn’t find a new home.
Overall, this trade reflects the ongoing shifts within the league, as teams look to adapt and strengthen their rosters for better future performance.
For more insights on roster changes and player statistics, check Fangraphs.
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dane dunning,jesse chavez,jose ruiz
