Detroit Tigers catcher Carson Kelly (15) gets ready to take the field against Cleveland Guardians for the first inning at Comerica Park in Detroit on Thursday, July 11, 2024. / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
The Texas Rangers have boosted their roster by acquiring catcher Carson Kelly from the Detroit Tigers. The deal, finalized on Sunday, saw the Rangers send two Double-A players, Liam Hicks and Tyler Owens. These two players were in the exchange for Kelly.
Carson Kelly’s Performance and Role
Kelly, 29, has had a solid season with the Tigers, hitting .240 with seven home runs and 29 RBIs in 60 games. He made his final appearance for Detroit on Sunday in a game against the Minnesota Twins, entering as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning and striking out in his lone at-bat.
Kelly has also played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Arizona Diamondbacks as a seasoned catcher. Over his career, he has accumulated a .224 batting average with 52 home runs and 199 RBIs. His experience and skills behind the plate are expected to provide valuable depth to the Rangers’ catching corps.
The Prospects Sent to Detroit
In return, the Tigers received catcher Liam Hicks and right-handed pitcher Tyler Owens. Hicks, 25, has played 80 games for Double-A Frisco this season, posting a .260 batting average with four home runs and 33 RBIs. Owens, 23, has also been with Frisco, compiling a 2-0 record with a 2.80 ERA in 26 relief appearances. Both players have yet to make their Major League debuts.
Impact on Both Teams
This trade strengthens the Rangers’ lineup as they aim for a strong finish to the season. Kelly’s addition provides a reliable option behind the plate and adds offensive potential. The Tigers, on the other hand, continue to build for the future by acquiring young talent with potential upside.
This trade reflects the strategies of both teams as they navigate the latter part of the season. The Rangers who have secured Carson Kelly are focused on immediate impact players to bolster their playoff push, while the Tigers are looking to develop their farm system and build a competitive team for the future.
The move has garnered attention across the league as both teams look to achieve their respective goals. The Rangers’ fans will be eager to see how Kelly integrates into the team and contributes in the crucial games ahead.
