Texas Rangers Add Veteran Presence to Opening Day Roster

Texas Rangers general manager Chris Young explains decision to add reliever Ian Kennedy to the Opening Day roster.

Texas Rangers general manager Chris Young announced Wednesday that veteran reliever Ian Kennedy made the Opening Day roster.

"Ian has a track record of being a successful Major League player," Young said. "He had a very good Spring Training in terms of his performance. A steady, solid veteran, dependable bullpen arm. We're excited to have him."

Kennedy pitched in eight games this spring, allowing two runs (both solo home runs), walking three and striking out eight. The addition isn't only about his Spring Training performance, but also about what Kennedy brings to the bullpen.

Young mentioned Kennedy's demeanor, leadership and his experience closing games. While he noted other potential late-inning options, Young did make a point to include Kennedy in the conversation.

"I think there's a trust and calmness to what Ian does, and there's no situation where he hasn't been in this game, and it's reliable," Young said.

The Rangers signed Kennedy to a minor league deal two months ago to add more veteran presence to the roster. It's Kennedy's second stint with the Rangers after a successful 2021 stretch.

During the 2021 season, Kennedy converted 16 of 17 possible save opportunities during 32 appearances with Texas. It was statistically one of the best seasons he's had as a Major League reliever. 

Ultimately, his first time with the Rangers ended when Texas traded Kennedy to the Philadelphia Phillies and received pitchers Josh Gessner, Kevin Gowdy, and Spencer Howard in return. All three remain in the organization. Coincidentally, the Rangers and Phillies will meet on Opening Day at Globe Life Field.

First pitch Thursday is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. CT.

Texas placed Jake Odorizzi and Glenn Otto on the 60-day injured list, to accommodate Kennedy's addition to the roster since he was not on the 40-man.

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You can find Alex Plinck on Twitter @aplinckTX.

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