The Texas Rangers added depth to their outfield on Sunday, claiming Dairon Blanco off waivers from the Kansas City Royals and placing left-hander Jordan Montgomery on the 60-day injured list as he continues to recover from elbow surgery.
Blanco, an outfielder who spent last season in the Royals organization, comes to Texas as a speed-oriented option who can contribute defensively across the outfield. He has appeared in the majors with Kansas City, where he was often used as a late-inning substitute in the field and on the bases. With the Rangers, Blanco is expected to compete for a role that could include pinch-running duties, defensive replacement work, and situational starts, depending on how the rest of the roster develops.
Claiming Blanco off waivers allows Texas to bolster its depth without parting with prospects or major league talent in a trade. His arrival adds another layer of competition among the club’s reserve outfielders and gives the Rangers more flexibility when constructing their bench.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Rangers transferred Jordan Montgomery to the 60-day injured list. The left-hander is rehabbing from elbow surgery and will be unavailable for at least the first two months of the regular season. The move is primarily procedural, as Montgomery was already expected to miss significant time while recovering.
Montgomery joined Texas as a key rotation piece and played an important role in the club’s pitching plans before his injury. His absence leaves the Rangers relying more heavily on their remaining starters and organizational depth until he is cleared to return. The 60-day injured list placement ensures the club can open a roster spot without making further subtractions.
With Blanco in the fold and Montgomery sidelined for an extended stretch, Texas continues to shape its roster ahead of the coming season. The waiver claim and injured list decision reflect the organization’s effort to balance immediate needs with long-term pitching health, while maintaining flexibility as camps progress and roles are defined.
