The Washington Nationals are on the cusp of trading left-hander MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The Rangers are sending five prospects in the return package: Gavin Fien, Alejandro Rosario, Abimelec Ortiz, Devin Fitz-Gerald, and Yeremy Cabrera. There will not be any additional roster moves needed to make room for the players.
Breaking; Mackenzie Gore traded to Rangers
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 22, 2026
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Long Time Coming?
MacKenzie Gore has long been rumored to be on the block. A lot of interested parties were inquiring about the young star prior to the July 31 trade deadline last year. However, no deal was struck. The Nationals haven’t really been competitive since they won the World Series in 2019. Since then, they have traded away stars such as Trea Turner and Juan Soto in an attempt to rebuild the organization. Thus far, it has not been a smooth process. They have changed the President of Baseball Operations and had trouble reaching a .500 record.
A Star in the Making
Gore has drawn attention across baseball because of his ability and pitching arsenal which includes an above-average fastball. He averaged 10.4 strikeouts per nine innings in 2025. He featured an Earned Run Average below three in the first half which garnered him an All-Star selection. The Opening Day starter struggled the second half of the season with injuries. A shoulder impingement and elbow inflammation slowed his momentum and he ended the season with an ERA of 4.19. The 27-year old has two years left on his contract. The Nationals were pessimistic about resigning his as he is represented by Scott Boras. The players that Washington is receiving in exchange for Gore are in the top 20 of the Rangers’ organization.
A Sorely Needed Upgrade
Finally, Gore is an upgrade for a Ranger rotation that has struggled with the attrition of injuries and free agency.
The Hot Stove has been given off some serious heat in recent days, as baseball heads for Spring Training in a matter of weeks.
(Top Image Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images)