Rangers Claim Dairon Blanco off Waivers from Royals

The Texas Rangers added outfielder Dairon Blanco via a waiver claim on Sunday while shifting lefty Jordan Montgomery to the 60-day injured list.

ARLINGTON, Texas -- The Texas Rangers bolstered their roster depth on Sunday by acquiring outfielder Dairon Blanco via a waiver claim from the Kansas City Royals. To create space for the 32-year-old Cuban native, the club moved left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the 60-day injured list as he continues his rehabilitation from a second elbow reconstruction surgery. This transaction follows the Royals' decision to designate Blanco for assignment last week, ending his tenure in Kansas City and bringing his career .257 batting average to the American League West.

Blanco joins the Rangers with significant major league experience, having appeared in 171 games across four seasons. During that span, the outfielder recorded seven home runs and 34 RBI. His primary value lies in his elite speed and baserunning efficiency; he has successfully stolen 59 bases in 73 career attempts. Since the 2022 season, Blanco has made 64 appearances specifically as a pinch-runner, a figure that leads all players in the major leagues. His most recent full minor league campaign in Triple-A Omaha saw him post a .253 batting average while swiping 32 bases.

Jordan Montgomery's Injury Status and Roster Impact

The corresponding move involving Jordan Montgomery reflects the pitcher's long-term recovery timeline. Texas signed the veteran southpaw to a one-year contract last month, acknowledging he would miss significant time following his latest elbow procedure. Montgomery was a pivotal figure in the Rangers' 2023 World Series championship run, which remains the only title in franchise history. After arriving at the 2023 trade deadline, he produced a 4-2 record and a 2.79 ERA over 11 regular-season starts for Texas.

Montgomery's postseason contributions were highlighted by two victories in the American League Championship Series. Most notably, he earned the win in the decisive Game 7 clincher against the Houston Astros. However, his career path took several turns following that championship season. He departed Texas in free agency to sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he struggled to an 8-7 record and a 6.23 ERA during the 2024 season. Following those struggles, the left-hander missed the entirety of the subsequent season before returning to the Rangers organization this spring.

Career Statistical Breakdown for New and Existing Assets

Over eight years of service in the big leagues, Montgomery has compiled a 46-41 record with a 4.03 ERA across 166 total games. His career has included stints with the New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Diamondbacks before his two separate tenures in Arlington. The Rangers are banking on his eventual return to the rotation once his 60-day stint on the injured list concludes and his elbow is fully healthy.

In contrast, the addition of the Dairon Blanco waivers claim provides manager Bruce Bochy with a specialized tool for late-inning situations. Blanco’s ability to disrupt opposing pitchers on the basepaths is documented by his high success rate in stolen base attempts. While his power numbers are modest with just seven career long balls, his high-frequency usage as a pinch-runner suggests he will occupy a specific tactical role in the Rangers' lineup.

Tactical Implications for the Texas Outfield

By adding Blanco, the Rangers gain a veteran presence who has proven he can produce at the Triple-A level and translate that speed to the majors. His 2023 performance in Omaha, featuring 32 steals, served as a precursor to his league-leading pinch-running statistics. The 32-year-old now transitions from a Royals team that designated him for assignment to a defending champion environment looking to maximize marginal roster gains.

The roster shuffle ensures that the Rangers maintain a full 40-man contingent while allowing Montgomery the necessary time to heal without occupying a short-term active spot. This move prioritizes immediate bench speed in the form of Blanco while acknowledging the reality of Montgomery's extensive surgical recovery. As the season progresses, Blanco’s 59 career steals and Montgomery’s 4.03 career ERA will remain key figures for the Rangers' front office as they evaluate the success of these veteran acquisitions.