The Rangers have been active in free agency, adding Pederson, catcher Kyle Higashioka, former Marlins slugger Jake Burger and re-signing Nathan Eovaldi. They also traded first baseman Nathaniel Lowe to the Nationals. Texas went 78-84 last season.

"It's time for us to take over the West," New Texas Rangers slugger Joc Pederson said, referring to the Houston Astros eight-year reign atop the AL West.

Before Joc Pederson even plays his first game with the Rangers, he already has his sights set on taking out the Astros.

Newest Rangers outfielder Joc Pederson wasted no time in sending a shot across the bow at the rival Houston Astros during his introductory press conference.

The 32-year-old who signed a two-year, $37 million deal with Texas didn’t hold back during Monday’s press conference.