Rangers Should Be Far More Willing to Be Sellers in 2019
By Daniel Marcillo
It was a nice underdog story for the Texas Rangers, but they have finally come back down to earth. Being as much 10 games over .500 in late June, they have fallen to 50-49, and fourth in the AL West, during their eight-game losing streak.
Now that the Rangers are returning to expectations, their time has come to sell. Their veteran-heavy roster should bring back young talent during their rebuild period.
#Rangers ace Mike Minor is an increasingly likely trade candidate, sources say. And if Texas takes that step, Pence, Choo and Santana could be available too. My latest story: https://t.co/kn8LUz0QzV @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 17, 2019
Mike Minor has been surrounded with trade rumors since the season started. The veteran lefty has numerous destinations in what has been his best season since he underwent Tommy John Surgery. He could fetch a nice haul on the market.
The Rangers took a small risk by signing Hunter Pence to a deal and he repaid them handsomely. Pence had his first All-Star season since 2014 and any prospect they receive in return will be a plus. His experience as a two-time World Series champion will benefit young teams like the Rays and Braves.
Source: #Rays have inquired to #Rangers on availability of All-Star DH Hunter Pence. Credit to @Jim_Duquette for mentioning this fit on @MLBNetworkRadio this morning. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 22, 2019
Shin-Soo Choo is also a good trade piece, but no team wants to take on a $21 million contract for this season and the following one. Should the Rangers eat some of the contract, then the trade would be more plausible, but Texas will demand more prospects in return.
The Rangers gave it a good run, but unfortunately all good things come to an end.
Far removed from their 90-win seasons, it is going take a few more years before there is any real playoff hope in Texas. They could knock a some time that timetable if they sell at the deadline.