Texas Rangers: Sellers at this year’s MLB Trade Deadline?
By Phil Akre
Once juggernauts of the sport, the Texas Rangers have quickly fallen to the bottom of the American League. With its season fading fast and a number of talented names on its roster, will the organization make the choice to sell before MLB Trade Deadline?
18-28. That’s the Texas Rangers current record. It means two things.
For one, the team hasn’t played well this season at all. Secondly, the team probably isn’t going anywhere. They’ve got the look of a surefire seller, and the idea is slowly coming to fruition, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
"“The Texas Rangers, owners of the fourth-worst record in the American League, are telling clubs they are open to trades, according to major-league sources. A few teams have made inquiries, but they mostly are telling the Rangers, “count us in” on specific players without actually pushing for deals, sources said.”"
Rosenthal’s report is hardly a surprise. The Texas Rangers are far past their days of dominating the AL. After buying in recent MLB Trade Deadline situations, the team should look to capitalize on youthful talent.
Texas Rangers
It appears the organization has found a young core to build around with incumbents Joey Gallo and Nomar Mazara.
On the horizon rests prospects like Willie Calhoun and Leody Taveras.
Cole Hamels represents the teams best trade chip. He is owed the rest of his $22.5 million salary for this season, with an option for 2019 worth $20 million.
His price tag shouldn’t scare any contender away, though.
He’s pitched to a 3.48 ERA this season and would be a valued addition to any team looking for rotation reinforcements.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, he can only be traded to a handful of teams without his approval – the Mariners, Cardinals, Nationals, Astros, Cubs, Phillies, Braves, Royals, and Rays.
Aside from Hamels, the Texas Rangers could look to deal Adrian Beltre. Rosenthal notes that the veteran would “likely waive his no-trade clause to join a contender.”
But, he’s been on the disabled list, so his price tag could be lowered significantly.
Next: Breaking Down the Best Benches in MLB
Doug Fister could be on the move, too, as he’s crafted a 3.43 ERA and 1.0 WAR this season. He’s a free agent after this season and would bring back a solid prospect or two.
Pulling the plug on the season would be the smart move for Texas. With a handful of talented prospects and aging veterans, GM Jon Daniels’ should be dealing this summer at the MLB Trade Deadline.