Former Blue Jays pitcher claimed by Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers announced that they have signed RHP Patrick Murphy to a minor league contract. Like most deals of this nature, it includes an invitation to spring training.
It has been a big offseason for the Rangers. The Murphy signing follows on the heels of the acquisition of pitcher Robert Garcia, acquired from the Washington Nationals in exchange for first baseman Nathaniel Lowe.
This follows their additions of Hoby Milner and Shawn Armstrong the re-signing of Nathan Eovaldi, as well as free agent slugger Joc Pederson
Murphy was originally drafted in the third round by the Toronto Blue Jays back in 2013.
After battling through some injuries, which included having a rib and then a nerve removed in 2014, he finally made his debut with the team in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season.
He had some success in his first season, appearing in four games for the Blue Jays and compiling a 1.50 ERA.
More injuries befell him in 2021, and he imploded upon returning, with a 4.82 ERA in eight games. He was eventually claimed off waivers by the Washington Nationals.
Murphy couldn't find consistency in Washington. Over parts of two seasons, he was 0-2 with a 5.80 ERA. Although he was striking people out, 2022 saw him surrender eight walks - to just four strikeouts - in 5.2 innings.
After a minor league stint with the Twins, he ended up with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan. He finally got things under control, going 1-2 with a 3.26 ERA.
Murphy last appeared in the big leagues in 2022.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 24 | 159 ANSWERS Former Blue Jays pitcher claimed by Texas Rangers Does Murphy find success this season? | ||
| Yes | 48 | 30.2 % |
| No | 111 | 69.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
