Rangers Add Jose Butto to Bullpen Mix
The Texas Rangers claimed right-handed pitcher Jose Butto off waivers from the San Francisco Giants on November 2 and added him to their 40-man roster. Texas designated outfielder Michael Helman, who cleared waivers and was assigned to Triple-A Round Rock.
The Rangers added Butto as they work to reshape their bullpen for 2027. To open a spot on the 40-man roster, they designated Helman for assignment. After no team claimed him, Helman was sent to Round Rock; he does not have enough major-league service time to reject the assignment.
Butto pitched only two innings for San Francisco last season before a blood clot in his arm required surgery and ended his year. He should recover in time for the 2027 season. San Francisco needed to resolve the status of players on its 60-day injured list by a November 2 deadline, and waived Butto amid a crowded roster.
The right-hander made his major-league debut with the New York Mets in 2022. In 2024, he went 7-3 with a 2.55 ERA over 30 appearances, recording three saves and striking out 79 in 74 innings. In 2025, he appeared in 55 games, posting a 3.90 ERA and 58 strikeouts in 67 innings. His brief stint with the Giants consisted of three appearances, with five strikeouts and four walks.
Texas could use Butto as an experienced, lower-cost setup option after Jakob Junis declined his mutual option. Jacob Latz is expected to serve as the Rangers’ closer in 2027. The club also added pitcher Aidan Curry to its 40-man roster last weekend to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.