Josh Stephan Shines in Arizona Fall League: A Texas Rangers Prospect’s Path to the Majors
Your typical Arizona Fall League pitcher is eager to impress. Many MLB teams avoid sending their best pitchers because the AFL occurs shortly after the minor-league seasons end. This means top pitching prospects often reach their innings limit by the time the AFL starts. Those who do participate usually aim to recover innings lost to injuries or to boost their visibility for current and future teams.
This year, the pitching in the AFL has favored hitters. The average OPS is .807, and teams score over six runs per game. Despite this trend, Texas Rangers prospect Josh Stephan has stood out in the league, offering a glimpse of his potential.
Stephan, a lifelong Rangers fan from nearby Globe Life Field, signed with the team for just $20,000 after being undrafted in 2020 during a limited MLB Draft. He faces a crucial moment on Tuesday, as the Rangers need to decide whether to add him to the 40-man roster or risk losing him in the upcoming Rule 5 Draft.
Stephan acknowledges the situation but stays focused on his performance. “It’s a dream to play for the Rangers, but I just go out and compete,” he stated.
Entering the championship game, Stephan led the AFL with 20 innings pitched, achieving the second-lowest ERA (2.25) and the third-lowest WHIP (1.00). In a championship game against the Salt River Rafters, Stephan pitched four innings, allowed two earned runs, struck out four, and walked one. His team lost 3-2.
While his AFL performance may not fully dictate the Rangers’ decisions, it serves as a reminder of his capability when healthy. After missing time in previous seasons due to injuries, Stephan last pitched a full season in 2022 with a 3.14 ERA over 103.1 innings.
What impact does the Arizona Fall League have on a player’s chances of making an MLB roster?
Title: Rising Star: An Exclusive Interview with Texas Rangers Prospect Josh Stephan on His Arizona Fall League Experience
By [Your Name], News Editor, NewsDirectory3.com
As the Arizona Fall League (AFL) continues to excite baseball fans with emerging talent, we had the opportunity to sit down with Texas Rangers pitching prospect Josh Stephan. With his impressive performances this season amidst a league that has favored hitters, Stephan’s future in the MLB hangs in the balance while the Rangers consider adding him to their 40-man roster.
NewsDirectory3.com: Josh, thank you for joining us. The Arizona Fall League has become a mixed bag for pitchers this season, with hitters capitalizing on the competition. How have you approached the AFL this year?
Josh Stephan: Thanks for having me! The AFL is definitely a unique experience. Coming off a season in the minor leagues, I viewed this as an opportunity to showcase my abilities and get back into a rhythm, especially after dealing with some injuries earlier in my career. It’s about learning to stay focused and stick to my game plan, even though the stats may be against us pitchers in this environment.
NewsDirectory3.com: It’s understandable given the circumstances. Many top pitching prospects often hit their innings limits, leaving less room for top talent at this stage. What kind of mindset are you bringing into these games knowing that many MLB teams send players who may not be their top options?
Josh Stephan: It’s all about maximizing my opportunity. I know it’s a chance to show what I can do, especially since I wasn’t drafted and went undrafted back in 2020. Every game is an audition, and I want to prove to the Rangers and other teams that I can compete at higher levels. While some might be cautious, I think it’s crucial to stay aggressive and show my potential.
NewsDirectory3.com: That mindset is commendable. You had a unique start with the Rangers, signing for $20,000 after becoming undrafted. How has that experience shaped your approach to the game, especially as you approach critical decisions regarding your career?
Josh Stephan: It definitely gives you a chip on your shoulder. I want to prove that I can make it in this league, not just for myself, but for everyone who supported me along the way—especially my family and friends who’ve cheered me on since my early days as a Rangers fan. With the decision looming on whether I’ll be added to the 40-man roster, I’m just focusing on what I can control and trying to improve with each outing.
NewsDirectory3.com: Speaking of your outings, what specifically have you focused on improving during your time in the AFL?
Josh Stephan: I’ve put a significant emphasis on my command and the finishing touches to my pitches. The competition is fierce here, so being able to locate my fastball and mix in my off-speed stuff effectively has been vital. I believe that consistency will be key in making an impression for the Rangers or any future opportunity.
NewsDirectory3.com: The Rangers have a crucial decision to make regarding your future soon. How do you handle the pressure that comes with such pivotal moments in your career?
Josh Stephan: It can be daunting, but I try to view it positively. Pressure is just a part of this game, and I believe it often brings out the best in a player. Instead of fixating on what may happen next, I focus on putting forth my best effort and being ready for whatever comes my way—whether it’s being added to the roster or continuing to work hard in the minors.
NewsDirectory3.com: That’s an inspiring perspective, Josh. Lastly, what do you hope fans will take away from watching you this season, especially with the struggles pitchers face in the AFL this year?
Josh Stephan: I hope they see that this stage is just the beginning of my journey. Every player here has a story and their challenges, and I want to show resilience and commitment. Baseball is about learning, and there’s always room for growth. Above all, I want fans to know that I’m ready to fight for my place in the league.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you, Josh. We wish you the best of luck as you continue your journey in the AFL and beyond!
Josh Stephan: Thank you! I appreciate the support.
As fans continue to follow the Arizona Fall League, Josh Stephan stands as a testament to determination and talent, navigating the complexities of professional baseball with poise. The next few days could mark a significant turning point in his career—one worth watching.
Rangers pitching coordinator Jordan Tiegs noted the importance of evaluating Stephan’s AFL performance but indicated it may not drastically change their plans regarding the upcoming draft. They are aware of what Stephan brings to the table.
Ranked as the 10th-best prospect for the Rangers, Stephan relies on a four-pitch mix. His low-90s sinker and cutter focus on control rather than speed. His slider shows good movement, and he worked on regaining feel for it during the AFL.
His Double-A pitching coach, Jon Goebel, observed that Stephan adapted well to the major league ball used in the AFL, which differs from the Double-A ball. Goebel mentioned that the major league ball enhanced Stephan’s performance.
Stephan has not pitched at a level higher than Double A, but he has made a case for himself in the AFL. Past performers in the league have used their success as a springboard to the majors, and Stephan is now on a promising path.
His MLB.com ETA is set for 2025. Tiegs highlighted how success in the AFL can boost a player’s confidence. If you perform well against strong competition, it builds belief that you can succeed at the major league level the following year.