The 2023 MLB trade deadline is more than a month away, but the Rangers and Royals announced a notable deal on Friday night, with Texas acquiring veteran lefty reliever Aroldis Chapman.
Kansas City brings back a pair of minor leaguers in the deal. LHP Cole Ragans joins the Royals’ Triple A affiliate in Omaha, while 17-year-old outfielder Roni Cabrera will play for the club’s Dominican Summer League team.
The 35-year-old Chapman has put together a solid season in the Royals’ bullpen, posting a 2.45 ERA in 31 appearances, with two saves. His ERA is the lowest since his 2019 All-Star season with the Yankees (2.21). Scott Barlow, who has nine saves, has been the team’s primary closer.