The Texas Rangers got the trade market going when they acquired veteran left-hander Aroldis Chapman from the Kansas City Royals at the beginning of the month.
However, it appears that the Rangers are not done adding to their bullpen and strengthening their pitching depth.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Texas has brought back a familiar face, signing veteran right-hander Matt Bush to a minor league contract.
Drafted by the San Diego Padres in the first round back in 2004, Bush didn’t make his Major League debut until 2016.
He was with the Rangers until last season, when he was shipped off to the Milwaukee Brewers at the trade deadline.
Nightengale announced the news on Twitter.
The Texas #Rangers continue to bolster bullpen by bringing back Matt Bush on a minor-league contract after being released by the Milwaukee #Brewers
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 12, 2023
Bush’s best season with the Rangers was his first season.
In 2016, the veteran right-hander went 7-2 and posted an ERA of 2.48.
He remained a viable bullpen arm until he was dealt to Milwaukee.
However, he posted a 9.58 ERA with the Brewers this season, which led to the team ultimately designating him for assignment.
Bush appeared in just 12 games for the Brewers this season.
His return to the Rangers represents a chance for him to get right and rediscover his 2022 form before he joined the Brewers.
Bush posted an ERA of 4.30 after the Rangers traded him last season.
But his stats with the Rangers were solid.
Texas may also continue to look for other pieces to strengthen its bullpen for the stretch run of the 2023 season.
The Rangers are 52-39 as they enter the second half of the season.
NEXT: Rangers Continue To Lead MLB In Important Pitching Mark
