2025 Season in Review: Billy McKinney
The 2025 Texas Rangers season has come to a close, and it's time to reflect on the players who made an impact. Today, we're focusing on outfielder Billy McKinney, a journeyman who has had a unique path in the MLB.
Billy McKinney, a Texas native and Plano West graduate, was drafted by the Oakland A's in 2013. His high school career showcased a sweet swing and excellent bat speed, but it was his hand-eye coordination and disciplined approach that caught the eye of scouts. However, the power never materialized as expected, and his overall tools were considered average.
McKinney's prospect arc is a testament to his journey. He was traded multiple times, first to the Chicago Cubs and then to the New York Yankees, where he was part of a high-profile deal for Aroldis Chapman. After a brief stint with the Toronto Blue Jays, he was claimed by the Milwaukee Brewers, then traded to the New York Mets, and finally to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Texas Rangers acquired him, only to non-tender him a week later.
In 2025, McKinney had two separate call-ups to the big leagues with the Rangers. He was released by the Mets and signed with Texas, providing depth during a time of need. He played a handful of games, going 1 for 7, before being designated for assignment and clearing waivers. McKinney's role was to fill in when injuries struck, and he accepted this challenge.
Despite his efforts, McKinney's season ended with a .200/.238/.250 slash line. His future remains uncertain, but he's likely to sign a minor league deal, spend time in AAA, and wait for his chance to contribute in the majors. McKinney's journey is a testament to the ups and downs of professional baseball, and it's a living he knows well.
