The Rangers have released Anthony Veneziano, a left-handed pitcher, from his minor league contract, allowing him to pursue a new opportunity with an Asian team. This decision comes just four weeks after Veneziano signed with the Texas Rangers. As a non-roster player, the team respects his choice to explore international options, especially given the potential for guaranteed offers from foreign clubs.
Veneziano, a 28-year-old veteran of three MLB seasons, made his big league debut with the Royals in 2023, pitching 2 1/3 innings. He then split time between the Royals and Marlins in 2024, accumulating 13 1/3 innings, and played for the Marlins and Cardinals last season, totaling 25 innings. The Cardinals claimed him off the waiver wire and outrighted him from the 40-man roster in November, leading to his decision to become a minor league free agent.
His MLB career includes a 3.98 ERA over 40 2/3 innings, with a 4.68 ERA in 2025. Veneziano's strikeout rate is respectable at 21.4%, but his walk rate was high at 9.4% in 2025. Control has been a concern, as he walked 20 batters in 24 2/3 innings of Triple-A play last season, resulting in a 5.11 ERA. Despite starting only one of his 40 Major League games, Veneziano has primarily been a reliever, transitioning to a bullpen role in 2024 and 2025.
By moving overseas, Veneziano aims to enhance his starting prospects and secure additional financial stability beyond the minimum MLB salary. This decision highlights the challenges and opportunities within the baseball world, inviting discussion on the potential benefits of international exploration.
