The 2025 Texas Rangers Season: A Tale of Surprises and Unlocking Potential
The Unexpected Rise of Cody Freeman
The 2025 season brought an intriguing narrative for the Texas Rangers, and one of its most surprising storylines involved infielder Cody Freeman. Initially, his time in the majors was brief and sporadic, filling in for injured players like Sam Haggerty.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Freeman's stint in the big leagues lasted longer than anyone anticipated. His journey began with a short call-up after the All-Star Break, followed by a quick demotion. However, fate had other plans, and he found himself back in the majors in mid-August, this time for the remainder of the season.
Freeman's role as a versatile infield backup was significant, especially with the departure of Jonathan Ornelas. But it's his minor league performance that truly captivates.
A Minor League Transformation
Freeman's 2025 minor league stats reveal a dramatic evolution. His batting averages in AAA (.336/.382/.549) showcased a significant improvement compared to his previous seasons in lower leagues. This is particularly impressive considering the PCL's reputation as a hitter's paradise.
And here's the fascinating part: Freeman's strikeout rate plummeted to 8.7% in 2025, a stark contrast to his previous years in the minors. This improvement is even more remarkable given the higher level of competition he faced in AAA.
His swing rate remained consistent, but the secret to his success lies in his contact rate. Freeman achieved an impressive 89.9% contact rate in AAA, a significant increase from his previous seasons.
To put this into perspective, Freeman's contact rate rivals that of elite major league hitters like Steven Kwan and Nico Hoerner. However, his major league performance didn't fully translate, as he struggled with quality contact and drew few walks.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Freeman has two options remaining, and his future with the Rangers is a topic of discussion. While he may start 2026 in AAA, his offensive prowess there raises questions about his potential impact on the major league roster. Despite his success against right-handed pitching, his reverse splits against lefties in recent seasons could limit his value as a bench player.
The 2025 season was a significant leap for Freeman, and the Rangers will be eager to see if he can build on this momentum in 2026. Can he solidify his place on the roster and become a consistent contributor? The answer to this question is what makes the upcoming season so intriguing for Rangers fans.
