Joc Pederson Rebuilds After Disappointing 2025 Season

Texas Rangers designated hitter Joc Pederson is determined to turn around his performance after a challenging 2025 season that saw him struggle significantly at the plate. Following a dismal year, Pederson spent the offseason focused on improving both his physical condition and swing mechanics, aiming to regain his form and contribute more effectively to the team.

In an interview, Pederson expressed his frustration over last season, stating, “I would feel embarrassed if I didn’t prepare and I didn’t give effort and if I didn’t try my best.” He emphasized that despite his extensive preparation and commitment to staying healthy, the results did not reflect his efforts. His batting average of .181 was the lowest in Major League Baseball for players with at least 300 plate appearances, marking a significant downturn from his previous performances.

Pederson’s struggles were compounded by a broken wrist he sustained in May, which sidelined him for two months. This injury contributed to a season where he recorded a .285 on-base percentage and a .328 slugging percentage, leading to an overall OPS of .614. Reflecting on the past year, he noted, “Last year was a tough year, all around… it was a failure in a lot of aspects.”

Focus on Recovery and Training

Recognizing the need for change, Pederson has taken proactive steps to enhance his performance. He enlisted the help of a personal chef and cut out unhealthy snacking, which he identified as a coping mechanism for stress. As a result, he reports losing between 15 and 20 pounds, which he hopes will improve his agility and overall performance on the field.

Additionally, Pederson has been working closely with the Rangers’ conditioning staff in Arizona to refine his hitting technique. He aims to return to a more vertical bat path, a strategy he successfully employed in the past that allowed him to hit with more authority. Last season, his flatter bat path resulted in an increased number of ground balls and pop-ups, with over half of his balls in play falling into those categories.

To address these issues, Pederson has been experimenting with a shorter bat, which he believes will help him achieve the desired bat tilt. He has transitioned to using a 33-inch bat, which is shorter than the models he typically prefers. This adjustment, he hopes, will facilitate better contact and improved hitting statistics.

Manager’s Confidence and Team Dynamics

Rangers’ manager Skip Schumaker has shown confidence in Pederson, noting his commitment to recovery and improvement. Schumaker shared his desire for players who underperformed last season to rediscover their capabilities, stating, “I want him to be feared again, but to be the relaxed version of him.” He emphasized that Pederson appears to be in excellent shape and has a motivated mindset heading into the new season.

Pederson acknowledges that he is not solely responsible for the Rangers’ offensive struggles; other players also faced difficulties. For instance, corner infielders Jake Burger and Josh Jung both recorded OPS numbers below .690, while teammates Adolis Garcia and Marcus Semien struggled with OPS figures under .670. Nonetheless, Pederson is committed to rebounding and contributing positively to the team’s performance.

As the 2026 season approaches, Pederson’s renewed focus and determination could be pivotal for the Rangers. With a two-year contract securing his position, he is eager to demonstrate that last season’s struggles were an anomaly. The upcoming season represents an opportunity not just for individual redemption but also for the Rangers to improve upon their previous shortcomings.

By dedicating himself to his physical and mental preparation, Pederson aims to ensure that the challenges of 2025 do not repeat themselves. The motivation he feels now transcends embarrassment; it is rooted in the desire to excel and help his team succeed.