Rangers Facing Joc Pederson Decision After Bruce Bochy's Move

Rangers Facing Joc Pederson Decision After Bruce Bochy's Move originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Texas Rangers dropped their weekend series against the Seattle Mariners, but they remain in the hunt for a postseason berth, sitting at 58–55 and just two games back of the third Wild Card spot.

After winning the World Series in 2023, Texas missed the playoffs last season and responded by bolstering its offense in the offseason, signing designated hitter Joc Pederson to a two-year, $37 million contract that includes a player opt-out after the first year.

The 33-year-old veteran earned his deal following a strong campaign with the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he batted .275 with a .908 OPS and 23 home runs over 132 games.

Joc Pederson Benched as Struggles Continue

Unfortunately, Pederson’s production has plummeted in 2025. After suffering a right hand fracture in May that sidelined him for two months, Pederson has struggled mightily, even when healthy, batting just .126 with a .473 OPS and two home runs across 53 games.

Ahead of Monday’s series opener against the New York Yankees, manager Bruce Bochy moved Pederson to the bench in favor of Josh Jung.

Back home against the Bronx Bombers. #AllForTXpic.twitter.com/5L4f5QQnw1

— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) August 4, 2025

With October in Sight, Rangers Face Pederson Issue

Jung, who had missed a few games with calf soreness, has returned to the lineup after a hot stretch following the All-Star break. Once Jung resumes his regular role at third base, left-handed slugger Josh Smith is expected to shift to designated hitter, especially against right-handed pitching forcing Pederson’s bat out of the lineup. Smith has been far more productive, batting .266 with a .743 OPS and nine home runs.

Pederson’s opportunities may be even more limited against left-handed starters, as he was not in the lineup Monday against left-hander Max Fried. The Rangers have also recently opted to start both right-handed catchers against lefties, Jonah Heim and Kyle Higashioka, with Heim often serving as the DH. Right-handed slugger Jake Burger is also expected to return soon, further crowding the roster and potentially pushing Pederson out of the mix.

Unfortunately for Texas, Pederson holds a player option for next season that he is likely to exercise given his poor performance. With the Rangers pushing to return to October baseball, Pederson will need to find a way to contribute before his role disappears entirely.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 4, 2025, where it first appeared.