The Texas Rangers and free agent right-hander Dane Dunning have agreed to a one year deal for the 2024 season. The news of the signing was first reported by Jon Morosi of MLB Network. As a result of this development, the Rangers and Dunning were able to avoid arbitration with the new contract. It is valued at $3.325 million. Dunning, in his first year of arbitration eligibility, will receive a well-deserved raise. The 29-year old righty posted a 3.70 ERA over 172 2/3 innings for the Rangers in 2023. He up a 140:55 K:BB ratio along the way. Dane Dunning will be a key piece of the Rangers’ rotation again in 2024, particularly for the first half of the season while the club waits on multiple other starters to get healthy.
Dunning’s 2023 Campaign
Dunning finished with a record of 12–7 during the Rangers’ World Series run in 2023. He appeared in 35 games, 26 of which were starts. Dunning struck out 140 and allowed 55 free passes. He also had a WHIP of 1.263. Not many pitchers find success in both the starting rotation and the bullpen. Dunning happens to be one of the few that have been successful. Upon the Rangers’ signing of Jacob deGrom, among others, in the 2022 offseason, it was Dunning who was sent back and forth from the rotation to the bullpen.
Through it all, Dunning has been exactly the type of player that every team needs. He has been willing to do whatever is needed, whether it is throwing one inning or seven. The only role that he hasn’t filled is that of the team’s closer. It would be interesting to see him try, however. Will Smith, who elected free agency and signed with the Kansas City Royals this offseason, was the Rangers’ closer last year. The re-signing of Dunning gives the Rangers options. It’s just a question of whether he’ll be relied on to pitch once a week or every couple of days.
Taveras Avoids Arbitration
The Rangers and Leody Taveras have also agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth $2.55 million to avoid arbitration. Taveras will add depth to the Rangers’ outfield in the 2024 season.
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