Leiter's revamped changeup has become a breakout tool for the Rangers. In six innings against Oakland, he threw 26 changeups—the second-most in the game—sparking whiffs and weak contact while his fastball and curve tightened around it. Bochy calls it a big pitch with growing command, signaling a possible ceiling-raising breakout in Texas.

Dunning's forkball anecdote—spring fodder that some pitchers shelve—highlights how quick tweaks can fade. Leiter's trust in the changeup, plus a faster curve, could unlock a higher strikeout rate and more in-season fantasy value for Rangers starters. The piece frames Leiter as a blueprint for a transformative season.

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, Dane Dunning, formerly of the Texas Rangers, has been traded to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for reliever José Ruiz. Dunning, who has battled injuries and spent significant time in the minors, is expected to fill a long-relief role with Atlanta after struggling to secure a starting position. His previous experience as a capable back-end starter in Texas could be an asset, but the Braves may face challenges considering his arbitration status next season.

Dunning's journey began as a top-500 prospect from Florida, showcasing his potential through strong performances in college. Despite some setbacks, including Tommy John surgery, he has shown flashes of his capability in the majors. Now with the Braves, he hopes to solidify his role and contribute to a playoff-bound team.

The Texas Rangers have made a notable move by acquiring right-hander José Ruiz from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for Dane Dunning. Ruiz, who has had a tumultuous season split between the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta, will now report to Triple-A Round Rock after a brief stint in the majors. His performance has not been stellar, with an 8.82 ERA in 16 1/3 innings, but he offers potential depth for the Rangers. Dunning, on the other hand, had a decent showing with a 3.38 ERA this season yet struggled for consistency, showcasing the team's strategy to reshape its pitching roster.

The Atlanta Braves are looking to bolster their roster, having acquired pitcher Dane Dunning from the Texas Rangers in exchange for Jose Ruiz and cash. Dunning, originally a first-round draft pick by the Nationals in 2016, has made a name for himself as a right-handed pitcher with a 3.38 ERA in five relief appearances this season. With a historically versatile career, he has primarily served as a starter, making 102 of his 129 appearances as such. The Braves likely see him as a key swingman who can adapt to multiple roles throughout the remainder of the season.

The Texas Rangers have officially kicked off their trading season by offloading right-hander Dane Dunning to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for reliever José Ruiz and some cash considerations. This move appears to provide the Rangers with a financial edge as they continue to explore the addition of late-inning relief options.

Dunning, who was the Rangers' Pitcher of the Year in 2023, struggled this season and was recently reassigned to Triple-A Round Rock after a brief stint with the major league team. Ruiz, meanwhile, has had a tough season, posting an 8.82 ERA across 18 games.

The trade also opens up a spot on the Rangers' 40-man roster, paving the way for Jon Gray's anticipated return from injury. The team is currently looking to maintain flexibility in its budget as it approaches the Competitive Balance Tax threshold, making even minor savings significant.