MLB trade rumors 2013: Texas Rangers considering moving Joe Nathan

Jul 24, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers relief pitcher Joe Nathan (36) celebrates with catcher Geovany Soto (8) after recording the last out during the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Teams that are in the market for a closer received some surprising but very exciting news with the Major League Baseball trade deadline just a few days away. According to the latest rumblings, the Texas Rangers are considering entertaining offers for closer Joe Nathan.

From FOX Sports:

"The Texas Rangers have had internal discussions about trading All-Star right-hander Joe Nathan, according to major league sources. If the Rangers proceed, it would be with the idea of dealing from strength and exploiting a thin market for relievers, sources said.The Rangers, frustrated by their attempts to land offensive help, could expand their trade possibilities by dangling Nathan. The team’s situation is growing more urgent — Texas has lost 11 of its last 14 games, and ranks ninth in the American League in runs per game."

Nathan 32 saves and a 1.73 ERA this season. If he was made available, plenty of teams would be lining up to land one of the top closers in the game.

Outside of Nathan, Phillies’ reliever Jonathan Papelbon is the top option on the market, but there is a growing belief that he may not even be moved before the end of the month.

If the Nathan does get moved, Joakim Soria could fill in as the team’s closer, according to the FOX Sports report.

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