Rangers Release 121-HR Hitter After Request

Veteran utility player Mark Canha asked for and received his release from the Texas Rangers organization.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:57am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the motion of a baseball player swinging a bat, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in muted earth tones, conceptually representing the difficulties veteran players face in extending their careers.The release of veteran slugger Mark Canha from the Texas Rangers organization reflects the challenges aging players face in maintaining their MLB careers.Kansas City Today

The Texas Rangers announced on Thursday night that they have granted the release of veteran utility player Mark Canha, who had signed with the team this offseason but failed to make the MLB roster. Canha, a career .248 hitter with 121 home runs, had a clause in his contract that allowed him to request his release if he was not on the major league team, which he exercised.

Why it matters

Canha's release is notable because he was once a productive MLB player, particularly known for his ability to hit left-handed pitching and play multiple positions. However, at 37 years old and with declining production in recent seasons, his future in the league is uncertain as he looks to latch on with another organization.

The details

Canha, who has played for the A's, Mets, Tigers, Brewers, Giants and Royals over his 10-year MLB career, struggled in 46 games with the Royals in 2025, posting just a .537 OPS. He had yet to appear in a game this season, not even at the Triple-A level, before requesting and being granted his release from the Rangers.

  • Canha was granted his release on Thursday, April 17, 2026.
  • Canha played 46 MLB games for the Royals in 2025.

The players

Mark Canha

A 37-year-old veteran utility player who has hit 121 home runs over his 10-year MLB career, playing for the A's, Mets, Tigers, Brewers, Giants and Royals.

Texas Rangers

The MLB team that signed Canha this offseason but ultimately granted his request for release after he failed to make the major league roster.

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The takeaway

Canha's release highlights the challenges veteran players can face late in their careers, as they try to latch on with new teams and find a role. While Canha was once a productive MLB hitter, his declining performance in recent seasons and inability to crack the Rangers' roster suggests his playing days may be nearing an end.