Talks have picked up surrounding the Texas Rangers’ efforts to move Alex Rios and it appears that the San Francisco Giants have emerged as the most aggressive suitor, as the two sides continue to have ongoing discussions according to FOX Sports’ Jon Morosi.
Source: Giants, Rangers in midst of ongoing trade conversations involving Alex Rios.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 31, 2014
The Rangers have been expected to move Rios before the deadline, but talks seemed to slow in recent days as teams became concerned about the remaining balance on his contract. Rios is earning $12.5 Million this season, of which he’s still owed just over $4 Million. His contract includes a team option for next season at $13.5 Million, with a $1 Million buyout. The Rangers, however, have expressed a willingness to pay a portion of that balance in order to help facilitate a deal.
Rios is batting .304/.335/.430 on the year in 421 plate appearances. His numbers are solid overall, though his home run totals are way down as he has just four on the season.
The Giants wouldn’t appear to have a need for Rios, given the production they’ve seen from their corner outfielders. Both Hunter Pence and Michael Morse have been putting up solid seasons. The team is still without Angel Pagan in center field, however, which could be where they envision Rios stepping into the lineup if a deal is completed.
Seattle was believed to have interest in Rios, but they are likely out of the mix now that they’ve acquired Chris Denorfia from the Padres.