3 Players Rangers Should Target at Trade Deadline to Increase Wild Card Chances

Even after their walk-off win Friday night against Houston, the Texas Rangers are still seven games back in the AL West. However, they still have a very good chance of reaching the postseason, as they are only 1.5 games back of the second Wild Card spot.

Texas is playing with house money this year and are eyeing contention next season in the opening of their new ballpark, but that doesn't mean they should sit on their hands and let the trade deadline go by without making a move. They must be aggressive.

Here are three players the Rangers should target at the trade deadline to increase their chances of making a Wild Card.

3. RHP Sergio Romo, Miami Marlins

Sergio Romo doesn't move the needle like he would've three years ago, but he'd bring a veteran presence in the Rangers bullpen they desperately need. Romo also gives Texas a reliever who can close games, which is something they could use.

2. INF Neil Walker, Miami Marlins

Yes, the Rangers should target another veteran on the Marlins. Even though Texas is one of the better offenses in the game, they could use some depth on the infield. Neil Walker brings defensive versatility and has been a league average hitter this season, slashing .265/.343/.400 with five home runs and 17 RBI.

1. RHP Zack Wheeler, New York Mets

Zack Wheeler is a hot-ticket item and will be at the top of every list for contenders heading into the deadline. However, you can bet the Mets won't send him to the Yankees, so why can't the Rangers swoop in and get him? With Wheeler becoming a free agent at season's end, the package of players shouldn't be too rich for Texas' blood, keeping their future crop of talent in place. The Rangers score a lot of runs, but they need to strengthen their rotation to go along with Mike Minor and Lance Lynn if they want a shot.