Rangers Sign Mark Canha To Minor League Deal

Veteran outfielder looking to bounce back after tough 2025 season

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Texas Rangers have signed veteran first baseman/outfielder Mark Canha to a minor league deal with an invitation to big league Spring Training. Canha, who turns 37 today, is looking to bounce back after a difficult 2025 season with the Kansas City Royals where he was limited by injuries and struggled at the plate.

Why it matters

The Rangers are hoping Canha can regain his form and provide a veteran presence and productive bat off the bench, especially against left-handed pitching. With questions around the team's first base and designated hitter production in 2026, Canha could be a useful addition if he can rediscover his swing.

The details

Canha slashed just .212/.272/.265 in 46 games with the Royals last season, spending time on the injured list due to an adductor strain and an elbow injury. After Kansas City added several outfielders at the trade deadline, Canha was released in mid-August and did not catch on with another team. The Rangers are giving him a chance to compete for a bench role in Spring Training, where he'll face competition from players like Ezequiel Duran, Cody Freeman, and Justin Foscue.

  • Canha turns 37 years old today (February 15, 2026)
  • Canha was released by the Royals in mid-August 2025

The players

Mark Canha

A veteran first baseman/outfielder who has posted a wRC+ of 101 or better in every season where he's had at least 200 plate appearances.

Jake Burger

The Rangers' primary first baseman in 2026 who posted a wRC+ of 89 last season.

Joc Pederson

The Rangers' returning designated hitter who had a down year in 2026, hitting just .181/.285/.328 with a wRC+ of 76.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Rangers will evaluate Canha's performance during Spring Training to determine if he can earn a spot on the major league roster.

The takeaway

The Rangers are taking a low-risk flier on the veteran Canha, hoping he can bounce back and provide a productive left-handed bat off the bench, particularly against right-handed pitching. His addition could help solidify the team's depth at first base and designated hitter.