Why is Robbie Grossman, who was placed on waivers, starting for the Texas Rangers?
The Rangers placed Grossman and Travis Jankowski on waivers Thursday, yet Grossman is in Friday’s lineup.
Texas Rangers pinch hitter Robbie Grossman hits a solo home run during the seventh inning…
Texas Rangers pinch hitter Robbie Grossman hits a solo home run during the seventh inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Globe Life Field on Sunday, July 7, 2024.(Smiley N. Pool / Staff Photographer)
Texas Rangers place Travis Jankowski, Robbie Grossman on waivers
Short story: Because he can. Longer story: Players who are placed on waivers can continue to play for that team until another one claims them, which means that both Grossman and outfielder Travis Jankowski — who was also placed on waivers Thursday — can continue to suit up for Texas unless they are claimed. It’s different from the “designated for assignment” move in which players are immediately removed from the 40-man roster and passed through waivers.
Friday’s game could, theoretically, be both Grossman and Jankowski’s final home game as Rangers. A player must be in a team’s organization before 11:59 p.m. ET on Saturday to be eligible for the postseason roster. So, if a contender wants to add Grossman’s ability to hit left-handed pitching or Jankowski’s defense and speed in time to help in the playoffs, they’d need to be claimed before that deadline. Clubs could put in a claim for either player based on waiver priority determined by reverse order of the standings.
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy did not comment on either move Friday.
