Texas Rangers Close to Signing Derek Lowe

Having sat quietly on the sidelines for most of the winter, it seems Derek Lowe might be close to signing a deal to join the Texas Rangers. (Image Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports)

Already believed to be looking for some additional starting pitching depth, the Texas Rangers appear close to signing veteran right-hander Derek Lowe to a minor league deal, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. It’s unknown at this point what role the team is envisioning Lowe filling, as he’s capable of both starting and relieving.

Texas could use the depth on their pitching staff after Martin Perez’s injury and the ineffectiveness of Justin Grimm this Spring. The two were most likely to fill out the back of the team’s rotation while they wait for Colby Lewis’ return from Tommy John Surgery. Lowe could potentially step in and start for the team for a few weeks, moving to the bullpen when necessary as starters come back healthy. He’d fit the swingman type role that Texas has long employed in their bullpen construction.

Lowe started last season with the Cleveland Indians, making 21 starts before the team designated him for assignment in early August. He was 8-10 before the move, with a 5.52 ERA and 1.689 WHIP in 119.0 IP. After Cleveland released him, Lowe signed with the New York Yankees just three days later and would spent the remainder of the season working out of the bullpen. In 17 appearances he went 1-1 with a 3.05 ERA and 1.268 WHIP in 23.2 IP, a big improvement from the first two-thirds of the season.

Lowe, who’ll turn 40 on June 1st, might not have much left in the tank after a 16 year career but could prove serviceable to the Rangers for a few months, which might be all they need him to do.