Texas Rangers Could Target Brian McCann in Free Agency

Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Upgrading their offense is going to be a certain priority for the Texas Rangers this offseason and one option they could potentially target just might be Brian McCann. Once the postseason comes to a close, the long time Atlanta Braves catcher is going to reach free agency for the first time in his career. Multiple teams will have interest, but Danny Knobler of CBS Sports believes that the Texas Rangers could be one of the more aggressive suitors.

Knobler’s heard from sources that the Rangers have tried – on multiple occasions – to acquire McCann from the Braves via trade. They routinely have their scouts watching Braves games to monitor McCann.

Atlanta is not expected to pursue re-signing McCann, despite the fact that he’s spent his entire nine year career with the team. The team has internal options who they believe can be more cost effective (Evan Gattis, eventually Christian Bethancourt). McCann is coming off a 2013 season in which he hit .256/.336/.461 in 402 PA. He’d add 20 HR, the sixth consecutive season he’s hit 20+. He’s been a big part of the Braves lineup for many years, but it appears all but certain that he’ll suit up in another uniform in 2014.

Texas will have an opening behind the plate, as A.J. Pierzynski will also be hitting the free agent market and appears unlikely to be re-signed by the team. McCann will turn 30 just as Spring Training begins. If he can remain behind the plate for another few seasons and given the expected market for his services this winter, it’s conceivable to think that he’ll see a multi-year deal this offseason.