3 Former Rangers Prospects Thriving with New Teams
Reflecting on past prospects can stir up a mix of emotions some sweet, some stinging. In the case of these three former Texas Rangers prospects, it’s a bit of both. While Texas has enjoyed success (including a recent championship run), it’s hard not to wonder “what if?” about the talented players who got away.
Luisangel Acuña
The younger brother of Ronald Acuña Jr., Luisangel is starting to shine as a key piece for the New York Mets. Acquired in the Max Scherzer trade at the 2023 deadline, Acuña had a rocky start in Triple-A Syracuse but closed the year strong, hitting .243 with 2 home runs, 12 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases in 37 games.
He continued his upward trajectory in 2024, posting a .258/.299/.355 line with 7 homers and 50 RBIs before earning a call-up to the majors. Now a regular in the Mets’ lineup, Acuña has impressed with his defensive versatility, consistent contact at the plate, and base-stealing ability. His breakout was recognized when he was named NL Rookie of the Month in May.
Emmanuel Clase
This one stings the most for Rangers fans. Clase, now one of baseball’s top closers, was traded to the Cleveland Guardians in the infamous 2020 deal that brought Corey Kluber for just one inning to Texas.
At the time, Clase was seen as a mid-level bullpen arm and was later suspended for PED use. However, he’s since developed into a dominant closer. From 2022 to 2024, he led MLB in saves each season (42, 44, 47), earned three All-Star selections, finished third in the 2024 AL Cy Young voting, and even received MVP consideration.
Thomas Saggese
Another piece moved during the Rangers’ 2023 World Series push, Saggese was dealt to the Cardinals with Tekoah Roby and John King for Chris Stratton and postseason standout Jordan Montgomery a trade any Rangers fan would gladly make again.
Saggese debuted with St. Louis in September 2024 and struggled, hitting just .204 in 18 games. However, after being recalled in 2025 due to an injury to Nolan Gorman, he impressed with a .341/.364/.512 slash line and an .876 OPS before returning to Triple-A. Though his strikeout-to-walk ratio (11 Ks, 2 BBs in 41 ABs) needs work, his recent surge shows promise.
These former Rangers prospects have taken different paths, but all three are proving their value in new uniforms — a reminder of the tough decisions teams face in pursuit of a championship.
