Texas Rangers Release Outfielder 3 Months After Signing Him

Veteran outfielder Rafael Ortega has been released by the Texas Rangers from their Triple-A club.

It is uncertain whether Ortega requested his release or if the team made the decision to cut ties with him.

Despite signing a minor league contract earlier this year, Ortega was unable to secure a spot on the Rangers' Opening Day roster and had been playing with Triple-A Round Rock since then.

Ortega showed improvement over the past month during his time with Round Rock, but ultimately finished with a batting average of .226, an on-base percentage of .333, and a slugging percentage of .381.

@Yankees @swbrailriders release Cordero … The Rangers are granting veteran outfielder Rafael Ortega his release from their Triple-A

— Michael E Bossi (@jeet2ss) June 7, 2023

In 44 games, he hit five home runs and stole eight bases in 199 plate appearances. As a result, the Rangers opted not to promote him to the major leagues due to the strong performances of their current outfielders.

Ortega had drawn interest during the spring while in the New York Yankees camp but did not make the Opening Day roster.

Prior to joining the Rangers organization, he had a productive run with the Cubs in 2021-2022. With experience in all three outfield positions, it is expected that Ortega will quickly find a new opportunity with another team, as he looks for more playing time in the major leagues.

Over his six-year career, the 32-year-old holds a .250/.322/.361 triple-slash line, with 21 home runs, 101 RBIs, 41 stolen bases, and 120 runs scored across 364 games played. Photo Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports