The Texas Rangers have executed a deal with the Chicago Cubs, acquiring cash considerations in exchange for right-handed relief pitcher Matt Festa. This move comes after the Rangers designated Festa for assignment to accommodate the signing of Chris Martin to a one-year contract.
Festa, who is set to turn 32 before the season starts, was originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the seventh round of the 2016 MLB Draft. After making his MLB debut in 2018 with the Mariners, he remained with the team until 2024, when he signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres.
His tenure with the Padres was brief, featuring only 16 games in Triple-A El Paso before his release. Subsequently, he signed with the New York Mets but struggled in his only MLB appearance, allowing four hits and five runs in just one inning before being designated for assignment again.
Despite his challenging stint with the Mets, Festa showcased promise in Triple-A, posting a 1.76 ERA over 11 appearances for Syracuse. This performance caught the attention of the Rangers, leading to his signing and a subsequent 4.37 ERA across 18 appearances for Texas. As he joins the Cubs, it remains to be seen if Festa will secure a more permanent role in the majors this season.
