Report: Joc Pederson, Kyle Higashioka and Jakob Junis Enter Free Agency

Joc Pederson, Kyle Higashioka and Jakob Junis are headed to free agency after their mutual options for 2027 were not exercised, according to The Dallas Morning News’ Friday report.

Reporter Shawn McFarland cited a person with direct knowledge of the decisions. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers first reported that Pederson declined his side. The reporting did not establish which party declined every option, and the Rangers had not announced the moves when MLB.com published its account Friday.

Pederson leaves after a rebound season at designated hitter. He batted .235/.329/.487 with 26 home runs and 53 RBIs in 136 games. His .816 OPS was considerably stronger than the .613 mark he recorded during his first Rangers season.

In 2025, Pederson hit .181 with nine home runs across 96 games. This season brought 17 more homers and 40 additional appearances, providing a different recent performance record as the left-handed hitter returns to the market.

Higashioka’s two-year Texas contract guaranteed $13.5 million, but he played in only 152 of a possible 324 regular-season games during that span. In 2026, he hit .218/.306/.370 with seven homers and 18 RBIs in 58 games.

Junis posted a 3.64 ERA in 53 appearances covering 54⅓ innings. He recorded six saves and 18 holds, struck out 38 and walked 18. His work included one start, with most of his appearances coming from the bullpen. He posted a 1.27 WHIP.

The Morning News reported that Junis’ results weakened after the All-Star break: a 2.80 ERA in 31 appearances before it became a 5.21 ERA in 22 afterward. He also dealt with health issues during the second half.

The three mutual options totaled $30.5 million for next season. Their reported departure affects three separate roles, designated hitter, catcher and relief pitching, as Texas begins its offseason roster decisions.