Texas Rangers Ponder Trade Deadline Moves
Contrary to usual expectations for defending World Series champions, the Texas Rangers may consider selling at the trade deadline, a strategy similar to the 2014 Boston Red Sox. Despite recent wins, their playoff chances remain slim at 10 percent, prompting the front office to plan for both buying and selling scenarios. Unlike the Red Sox’s approach, the Rangers might also trade players under control beyond this season to compete swiftly in 2025.
If the Rangers decide to sell, they could offload players like Nathan Eovaldi and Max Scherzer, who possess limited no-trade clauses, and even explore deals for key positions such as first baseman Nathaniel Lowe and center fielder Leody Taveras. Their ownership has restricted payroll growth due to uncertainties with the team’s regional sports network, making the trade route practical for reallocating resources.
Meanwhile, the Orioles face pressure to secure starters for beyond this season, having only three current starters under team control past this year. They may trade high-salary veterans, opening roles for rising talents. The Cardinals also could see major trades to address their struggling lineup and injury-prone pitching staff, while the Braves track rookie pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach’s rapid development to bolster their rotation.