Texas Rangers Bolster Roster with MacKenzie Gore in Trade with Nationals
The Texas Rangers have bolstered their starting rotation by acquiring left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore in a move with the Washington Nationals. In return, the Nationals receive a package of five prospects, highlighting shortstop Gavin Fien, the 12th overall pick in the 2025 Draft.
In the agreement, the Nationals also incorporate right-hander Alejandro Rosario (No. 6 prospect), infielder Devin Fitz-Gerald (No. 12), outfielder Yeremy Cabrera (No. 16) and first baseman/outfielder Abimelec Ortiz (No. 18), thus reinforcing their minor league system.
MacKenzie Gore, 26, has been a recurring name in trade rumors, especially for his potential as a high-level starter under contractual control. The left-hander is in his second year of salary arbitration, after earning US$2.89 million last season.
Gore was the Opening Day starter for the Nationals in 2025, marking his fourth season in the Major Leagues and his third with Washington, the team he joined from the San Diego Padres as part of the trade that sent Juan Soto to California in 2022.A Season of Contrasts for Gore
In a season with ups and downs for Washington, Gore recorded a 5-15 record and a 4.17 ERA in 30 starts, accumulating 159.2 innings pitched. His participation was affected by injuries to his right ankle and left shoulder.
The lefty had a promising start to the season, setting a franchise record by striking out 13 batters on Opening Day against the Phillies. He finished the season with 185 strikeouts, his personal best, ranking fourth among National League left-handers, with 10.4 strikeouts per nine innings, an improvement over the previous year.
During the first two months, Gore emerged as a candidate for the Cy Young Award, with an ERA of 2.87 and 108 strikeouts in his first 13 starts, earning him his first All-Star selection. However, injuries impacted his performance in the second half, with a 1-7 record, an ERA of 6.75, and 47 strikeouts in 11 starts.Pitcher MacKenzie Gore Profile
MacKenzie Gore has a five-pitch repertoire, led by a four-seam fastball that averaged 95.3 miles per hour last season, in addition to a curveball, slider, changeup, and cutter. He was the third overall pick in the 2017 amateur draft by the San Diego Padres and was recognized as the Gatorade Player of the Year that same year after his outstanding performance at Whiteville High School in North Carolina.
With this acquisition, the Rangers are betting on Gore’s talent and potential, while the Nationals continue their rebuilding process by strengthening their young core for the future.
