Don't look now, but the Texas Rangers are closing in on Arizona Diamondbacks' outfielder Justin Upton.
The details are uncertain, but Ken Rosenthal has been keeping his eye on this potential blockbuster deal.
As reported earlier, a deal would include Asdrubal Cabrera with the Cleveland Indians, which would please the Diamondbacks as that would checkoff their wishes for a shortstop.
The idea would be for the Indians to get a number of rookies, maybe two, and then have Upton land in Texas.
While in Texas, Upton can take over the left field duties as the Rangers haven't really received a lot of consistent play from a left fielder.
Josh Hamilton will likely be gone and he started half the games in centerfield for the Rangers.
Nelson Cruz would be in right and Upton could play left field despite strictly playing right field. He is younger and more agile than Cruz.
The biggest problem with Upton is his inconsistency.
In 2012, Upton only hit 17 home runs after smashing 31 in 2011. In 2010, he hit 17 homers again after smashing 26 in 2009.
He is young and without a doubt can get help and make adjustments. Upton can protect or receive protection from guys like Cruz and especially Adrian Beltre who continues to hit at a high level.
Upton can potentially fill in some of the power the Rangers will lose as Hamilton might leave Texas.
Another team to keep an eye on, as far as trades are concerned, are the Philadelphia Phillies who have high interests in Michael Young.
Stay tuned as we will keep you posted with the latest rumors and deals that get done in Day 3 of the 2012 MLB Winter Meetings.
