The Rangers designated Apostel (knee) for assignment Thursday.
Since reaching the majors as a 21-year-old late in the 2020 season, Apostel has seen his prospect star dim considerably. He didn't see any big-league action in 2021, as he was optioned to Double-A Frisco last spring and posted an underwhelming .736 OPS in 167 plate appearances. Apostel was still able to earn a call-up in early August to Triple-A Round Rock, where he continued to disappoint with a .205/.284/.282 slash line in 88 plate appearances before he underwent season-ending knee surgery in September. Apostel is believed to be nearing the finish line in his rehab program, but he'll still likely be required to begin the season on the injured list at the Triple-A or Double-A level with either the Rangers or another organization, if he happens to get claimed off waivers.