Texas Rangers Sign Free Agent All-Star Catcher
In a move that highlights the Texas Rangers' growing concerns over their catching depth, the team signed veteran backstop Omar Narváez to a minor league contract.
Narváez, 33, brings over a decade of MLB experience, including an All-Star selection with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2019. He joins the Rangers’ minor league system after being released by the Houston Astros earlier this month. Despite recent struggles with the bat, Narváez offers considerable defensive experience and the potential for a midseason call-up, especially with the Rangers’ current catching situation in flux.
Jonah Heim’s performance has dipped in 2025, and the Rangers’ other MLB option, Kyle Higashioka, adds little in terms of offensive output, making Narváez an intriguing depth option for Texas.
#Rangers just announced that they signed veteran catcher Omar Narvaez to a minor-league contract. He's headed to Round Rock. Catching depth has been a need for a while.
— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilsonTXR) August 10, 2025
Rangers Add Veteran Omar Narváez to Address Catching Depth
The Rangers have been battling a lack of catching depth throughout the 2025 season. With only Heim and Higashioka currently on their 40-man roster and minimal production from their Triple-A options, Narváez’s signing could offer some relief.
He has a career slash line of .252/.335/.373 across 681 MLB games, and while his offensive numbers have waned in recent years, his ability to handle a pitching staff and his game-calling experience remain valuable. Narváez’s time with the Seattle Mariners, where he posted his best career numbers, could be a signal that he can still contribute in a backup role if called upon.
The Texas Rangers signed C Omar Narváez to a minor league contract. pic.twitter.com/fyEpCnB21J
— MLB Roster Moves (@MLBRosterMoves_) August 11, 2025
Given the Rangers’ current depth issues behind the plate, Narváez might not remain in Triple-A for long. The team has seen minimal success from their minor league catchers, and Narváez’s veteran presence could become a much-needed boost for a team with playoff aspirations. If he proves his worth in Round Rock, he could be promoted when rosters expand in September.
Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
