Add another veteran pitcher to the mix.
The Rangers have signed right-hander Dillon Gee to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. Gee is a local product, born in Cleburne and played collegiate baseball at UT Arlington.
"We were looking for a place to go out and win a job, and this was one of the better ones," said Gee. “It’s a good fit. Having the opportunity to stay at home and play; that definitely helps the situation. I grew up watching the Rangers so I’ve always dreamed about playing for this organization.”
Gee was 8-9 with the Kansas City Royals last season, splitting time between the starting rotation and the bullpen. He had thoracic outlet syndrome surgery at the end of last season, but expects to be ready for spring training.
“I feel fantastic,” said Gee. “I’m just really looking forward to going out there and competing in spring training and try to get another gig.”
Gee made a name for himself with the New York Mets. He ended his rookie season with a 13-6 record in 2011 and was the opening day starter in 2014.
Gee was also hit with the injury bug during his time in New York. After being placed on the disabled list during the 2015 season, the Mets called up Mansfield native Noah Syndergaard to take his spot. The Mets also flirted with the idea of using a six-man rotation once Gee was healthy. However, after one bad start, the team announced plans to use Gee out of the bullpen, a move that frustrated the righty. He was later designated for assignment and became a free agent after the season. Gee then signed a minor league deal with the Royals.
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“This game is a challenge,” added Gee. “You just got to fight your way through it. It was kind of an abrupt ending there in New York, but it is what it is. I found a job with the Royals last year and pitched fairly well.”
Now Gee gets another chance, this time with the Rangers. He will likely battle for the fifth spot in the rotation, along with A.J. Griffin, Nick Martinez and Rule 5 draft pick Mike Hauschild.
The Rangers recently agreed to a deal with another veteran right handed, Tyson Ross, but the signing isn’t officially yet because Ross has not had his physical. Ross is also coming back from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and may not be available at the start of the season.
