The Texas Rangers are looking to make some moves this offseason. The team has been rumored to be in the mix for several of the league's top free agents and could be making some moves very soon. Manager Ron Washington confirmed to ESPN that the Rangers have already begun initial contract discussions with several players including Robinson Cano and Jacoby Ellsbury.
Cano is easily one of the biggest names to be up for grabs this offseason. While a bidding war is not really taking place for the second baseman, he is opting to take his time and hear every offer thrown his way. A source close to the All Star notes that Cano could hold out past Christmas to try and get the best offer whether it is from the Yankees or another team.
"He's ready for this to go past Christmas, into January if necessary," the source said, via the New York Daily News. "He's been told all along that it could take time for a market to develop for him, and he's fine with that. He wants his money, that's the bottom line. He wants to be a Yankee, but only if he gets the money he wants."
So for now, the Rangers are attempting to persuade Cano down to Texas. The signing of the second baseman would be odd considering Texas does not really have a spot for him on the field. However, the Rangers are reportedly looking into trading either Ian Kinsler or Elvis Andrus which would open up a starting spot. If Kinsler stays, he may move to first base, but if no trade works out, the signing of Cano would appear to be a waste. The Rangers are not going to pay him that amount of money to simply be a designated hitter.
Ellsbury would be a quality pickup for the Rangers since both Nelson Cruz and David Murphy are free agents. Ellsbury is a quality outfielder and a speedster around the bases. Ellsbury lacks power at the bat, but he makes up for it with defensive play.
The Rangers are not being shy about their pursuit of all the top players. They have also been in discussions with catcher Brian McCann who is being pursued by almost every team. The Rangers have re-signed catcher Geovany Soto, but are still in talks to get the big-hitting McCann.
Free agency will certainly start to get more interesting. Texas has every intention of being a major player in it.
