Can a fully recovered Cody Bradford be the missing piece in the Rangers' pitching puzzle?
Texas Rangers left-handed pitcher Cody Bradford is gearing up for a pivotal season, aiming to solidify his role in the team's rotation after a year-long absence due to injury. With his fourth season in the majors and seventh overall with the organization, Bradford is more determined than ever to prove his worth.
In a recent Winter Warmup event, Bradford echoed the sentiments of Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young, stating, “You can never have too much starting pitching.” This mantra resonates deeply, especially after the team experienced significant attrition in their pitching staff last season, leaving them with only five starters by year's end. Bradford’s own injury was a contributing factor, but now, he’s focused on being part of the solution.
“I want to show not just the team, but the fans, that I can be the same, if not a better version of myself,” Bradford declared. At 27, the Aledo native and Baylor alum is eager to bounce back after missing the entire 2025 season due to an internal brace procedure in June. This surgery derailed what could have been his first full, healthy season in the Rangers' rotation.
Bradford’s rehab process has been described as “smooth,” and he’s set to throw his first bullpen session this Wednesday. He’s targeting a minor league rehab start shortly after spring training concludes, with the goal of returning to the majors by May. This timeline aligns with the typical 10-month recovery period for pitchers undergoing internal brace procedures.
“Starting in the big leagues and building up to a solid pitch count—that’s the goal,” Bradford said. But he’s not stopping there. “I’ve never had a full season in the big leagues, and I want to prove I can be a reliable major league starter,” he added. This ambition is personal, as injuries have repeatedly disrupted his career, including a lower back strain in 2023 and an elbow sprain that required surgery last spring.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While Bradford has shown promise—posting a 3.03 ERA in 13 starts two seasons ago—his ability to stay healthy remains a question mark. Can he finally put together a full, injury-free season? And if so, will it be enough to secure a permanent spot in the Rangers' rotation?
The year off hasn’t been all setbacks. Bradford used the time to focus on strength training and refine his mechanics. He’s adjusted his lower body movement to reduce stress on his arm, improve his spin pitches, and potentially add a bit more velocity to his 90 mph fastball. However, he’s quick to dismiss the notion that elbow surgery directly leads to increased speed, suggesting that time off and dedicated gym work might play a bigger role.
“I’ve had six months in the gym, and while I won’t say I’m in the best shape of my life, my body feels really good right now,” Bradford noted.
The Rangers are undoubtedly hopeful. With Jacob deGrom, Nathan Eovaldi, and Jack Leiter as rotation locks, the team is actively seeking depth through free agency and trades. Bradford, along with Kumar Rocker and Jacob Latz, is in the mix for the final two rotation spots. Latz, in particular, impressed last season with a 2.72 ERA in eight starts, earning Bradford’s endorsement as a capable major league starter.
Bradford’s track record suggests he has the talent, but the next step is proving it on the field. And this is the part most people miss: His success isn’t just about pitching—it’s about consistency, resilience, and finally fulfilling the potential he’s shown in glimpses over the years.
What do you think? Can Cody Bradford stay healthy and become a reliable starter for the Rangers? Or will injuries continue to derail his career? Let us know in the comments below!
