Joc Pederson is reportedly set to enter MLB free agency. According to Jesse Rogers of ESPN, the veteran slugger declined his part of his mutual contract option with the Texas Rangers.

Pederson, 34, is a two-time All-Star. Although he wasn't an All-Star in 2026 with Texas, he quietly had a productive season. Pederson dealt with some injury trouble but still had a strong campaign overall. The left-handed hitter recorded 26 home runs to go along with an .816 OPS.

He primarily played against right-handed pitching. In 396 plate appearances against right-handers, Pederson hit .245 with an .834 OPS and 25 home runs. Meanwhile, he hit just .116 with one long ball against southpaws.

It would not be surprising to see him draw interest in free agency. Pederson is still a productive player.

Teams in need of a left-slugger who crushes right-handed pitching will surely reach out. While Pederson spent most of his time at designated hitter this past season, he is capable of playing corner outfield or first base.

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His veteran prowess is another intriguing element of everything he can bring to a team. Pederson has played at the big league level since 2014 and he won the World Series in 2020 with the Los Angeles Dodgers and 2021 with the Atlanta Braves. Bringing in a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion will surely appeal to a number of teams.

As for the Rangers, they are looking to get back on track after missing the postseason once again this past season. They have been incredibly inconsistent overall since winning the World Series in 2023.