The leading pitcher for the Texas Rangers in 2024 is said to be finalizing a contract with another team.

ARLINGTON, Texas — That name can be removed from consideration. It is a significant one.

The Texas Rangers, in their ongoing efforts to refine their bullpen, have missed an important target: Kirby Yates, who is expected to be the Rangers' reliable closer in 2024, is reportedly set to sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

According to multiple reports on Tuesday morning, Yates' agreement with the Dodgers is contingent upon passing a physical examination. There had been discussions suggesting that the Rangers considered Yates as one of their primary offseason objectives, alongside re-signing starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi and enhancing their batting lineup. They successfully addressed those latter goals by signing Eovaldi and designated hitter Joc Pederson, as well as acquiring corner infielder Jake Burger through a trade.

However, it appears that the deal for Yates could not be finalized, and with the Dodgers involved, it presents a formidable challenge. Yates will be joining the reigning World Series champions, who have been actively strengthening their roster this offseason, notably by signing Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki.

Yates has the potential to be a significant asset for the Dodgers in the near term; he performed exceptionally well in 2024 with the Rangers after overcoming injuries in previous seasons. Last year, Yates successfully converted 33 of 34 save opportunities, achieving a remarkable 1.17 ERA and recording 85 strikeouts over 61.2 innings. He was honored as an All-Star for the second time in his career and ranked eighth in the American League Cy Young voting.

Although Yates' impressive season did not receive widespread attention due to the Rangers' inconsistent performance, he was expected to reclaim the closer's position for Texas in 2025. Instead, he will be bringing his talents to Los Angeles.

The Rangers may still consider re-signing reliever David Robertson, who also had a strong performance in late innings during 2024, depending on their budget and desire to avoid exceeding the luxury tax threshold. At 39 years old, Robertson remains without a contract for 2025. He primarily served as Yates' eighth-inning setup man, pitching 72 innings with a 3.00 ERA.

This offseason, the Rangers have bolstered their bullpen by adding Shawn Armstrong, Robert Garcia, Hoby Milner, Chris Martin, and Jacob Webb.