MLB trade rumors are coming hot and heavy around this time of year, as per usual, with the Texas Rangers being a part of a few. Most recently, ESPN's Buster Olney mentioned a rumor similar to the one that made its round with the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday.
MLB Trade Rumors: Rangers Could Land Heath Bell Or Mike Adams, According To Buster Olney
The Rangers are the favorites to either land Heath Bell or Mike Adams from the San Diego Padres, according to Olney, in their wide-ranging quest to add additional bullpen help.
Baseball Nation’s Rob Neyer recently dissected the Rangers roster, noting that the Texas lineup is solid and the rotation is pitching well, leaving the bullpen as the only real area of need heading toward the MLB trade deadline.
Last season the Rangers’ bullpen was a real strength, with Texas relievers posting a 3.38 ERA good for second lowest in the American League. This year they’re at 4.56, 12th in the league.
It’s not really as bad as all that. Much of the damage to the ERA has been done by David Bush (5.79) and Michael Kirkman (7.33), none of whom are still around. Still, with the exception of ancient left-hander Darren Oliver, those seventh and eighth innings can be somewhat shaky, leading up to Neftali Feliz in the ninth.
If Bell moves from his closer’s role to a set-up man in Texas, the Rangers might be poised for an October run.
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