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MLB Trade Rumors: 5 players Rangers should acquire

By Nicholas Ian Allen

Apr 28, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun (8) high fives teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2017; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun (8) high fives teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Miller Park. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 27, 2017; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets center fielder Curtis Granderson (3) beats the throw to Atlanta Braves catcher Kurt Suzuki (24) in the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2017; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets center fielder Curtis Granderson (3) beats the throw to Atlanta Braves catcher Kurt Suzuki (24) in the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Curtis Granderson, OF, Mets

When looking at the Texas roster, the case could be made for an upgrade at first base, or at least to add a left-handed hitter to the mix as a potential platoon partner for Napoli. However, when third baseman Adrian Beltre finally returns to the lineup after spending his entire season on the DL so far, that will free Joey Gallo to possibly play some first base to keep his bat in the lineup.

Gallo could also play left field, theoretically. After all, the slugger played 19 games in left as a rookie in 2015. But, if the Rangers wanted to pursue a veteran outfielder with a left-handed bat, and one that still has power, Curtis Granderson could fit the bill.

The Mets have one too many outfielders, and Granderson could be the odd man out. New York is also off to a terrible start, and would likely be willing to trade the veteran.

Though he’s hitting an ugly .173/.246/.340 with four homers in 44 games this season, the 36-year-old launched 30 bombs in 150 games last year. It was Granderson’s fourth 30-homer season, and he’s hit 20 or more in nine of his last 10. Past production obviously isn’t a guarantee of future success, but Granderson still has value. Plus, he’ll be a free agent after the season, so the Rangers won’t be locked in to anything long-term in case he doesn’t bounce back to form.

Granderson has played just 53 career games in left field, including one game this season. But he’s certainly capable of making the switch and would probably be willing if there’s an opportunity to play every day for a contender.

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