Rangers Reportedly Acquire Reliever Nate Jones From White Sox
By Mark Powell
Despite not really identifying themselves as buyers or sellers at this year's trade deadline, the Rangers appear to be doing a little of both.
Texas sits firmly entrenched in the Wild Card race behind several capable opponents, a full 7.5 games back of of the second spot, which is held by the Oakland Athletics. With more moves potentially to come, the Rangers made their first addition of the day.
The Texas Rangers got creative to get $1M in international bonus money, taking on Nate Jones' contract and shipping the Chicago White Sox two minor league pitchers, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 31, 2019
Jones, who is on the injured list, is owed about $2.75M between salary and option buyout.
As Passan notes, this move is more a financial trade-off than anything else. The White Sox would prefer he not be on the books, especially as they continue their rebuild under Kenny Williams. Chicago is in this solely for the international bonus money.
Still, acquiring Jones isn't a bad move by any means for Texas, as he's actually pitched to a respectable 3.48 ERA this season. This explains why the Rangers had to ship two capable minor league arms to the south side of Chicago in return. But he won't be able to help Texas much for the remainder of this year, however, as Jones was placed on the 60-day IL after undergoing surgery to repair a torn flexor strain.
Rangers have acquired Nate Jones and International slot money & cash considerations for MiLB pitchers Joe Jarneski and Ray Castro. Jones goes on the 60-day IL
— Levi Weaver (@ThreeTwoEephus) July 31, 2019
Reading between the lines, I suspect a Bayron Lora signing will be announced soon.
Should Texas wish to retain Jones, they can likely do so at an affordable price, as the right-hander hits free agency this coming season.