Rangers Sign Pablo Guerrero

By Nate Miller

January 15, 2023

The Texas Rangers opened a third chapter of a baseball legacy on Sunday when they signed outfielder Pablo Guerrero. If the name rings a bell, it’s because Guerrero comes from a strong baseball bloodline. He is the son of Hall of Fame right fielder Vladimir Guerrero. He is also the younger brother of Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. He will be a very welcomed presence in the Rangers’ organization.

Joining the Ranks

Pablo Guerrero will be joining an organization that already boasts the likes of Luisangel Acuna. Acuna is a shortstop in the Rangers’ system. He is also the younger brother of Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. Rangers fans are sure to be excited to watch not only one, but two strong family trees continue to grow in Arlington. Their progress will definitely be worth following for quite some time.

Where Guerrero Fits

Guerrero is currently training in the Dominican Republic with his uncle, former major league player Wilton Guerrero. He has a similar build as his older brother. Guerrero might end up playing the same position. The teenager has played some third base, and some in the outfield. He projects to move to first base in the future.

Additional Moves

According to industry sources, the Rangers have also agreed to a deal with shortstop Sebastian Walcott of the Bahamas. Walcott is ranked No. 8 on the international Top 50 list. The Rangers have not confirmed the deals, which are both pending physicals. They have a base signing pool of $4,144,000 to work with. It is also worth mentioning that the Rangers forfeited a total of $1 million from their pool for the signing of free agents Corey Seager and Marcus Semien after the 2021 season ended.

What’s Next

An international player such as Guerrero is eligible to sign with a Major League team between December 15 and January 15. He must turn 16 before he signs, and be 17 before Sept. 1 of the following year. In practical terms, that means players born between Sept. 1, 2005, and Aug. 31, 2006, will be eligible to sign in the upcoming signing period. Players have to be registered with Major League Baseball in advance in order to be eligible to sign. Teams are allowed to trade international bonus pool money starting Jan. 15.