This means that Dunning has cleared waivers and will remain in the Rangers’ organization. That’s a bit of a win for the Rangers, considering Dunning has a career 4.35 ERA and can pitch out of the bullpen or stretched out as a starter. His versatility will likely come into play this season for the Rangers.

Any team that claims Dunning would assume his $2.33 million contract for this season. If he clears waivers without being claimed, the Rangers can outright him to the minors. Dunning had an 8.18 ERA, 1.90 WHIP and 14/4 K/BB ratio in 11 innings this spring. Even for the soft-tossing Dunning, his velocity was down this month as he was barely topping out at 90 mph. It speaks volumes that Dunning, owner of a 4.35 career ERA, was considered a rotation option given the amount of injuries the Rangers have had in their rotation already this spring.

The runs were the first he’s allowed in six innings this spring. Still, it’s been disappointing to see Dunning’s velocity down a tad so far. He topped out at 90.5 mph and averaged 89.0 mph with his sinker today. We were hoping he’d get some velocity back after going from an average of 91.0 mph in 2023 to 89.7 mph last year.

The deal also includes incentives that could run the total a bit higher. It’s actually a step down from the $3.325 million that Dunning earned during the 2024 season wherein he struggled to a 5.31 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and a 91/40 K/BB ratio across 95 innings in 26 appearances (15 starts). Whether or not he’ll have any deep league fantasy value in 2025 will be determined by how he fares in his battle for a spot in the Rangers’ crowded starting rotation.