Fansided

10 MLB moves that still need to happen this winter

By Joshua Sadlock

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 20: Atlanta Braves Third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) takes the field during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco on September 20, 2019 at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David John Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 20: Atlanta Braves Third baseman Josh Donaldson (20) takes the field during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Francisco on September 20, 2019 at SunTrust Park in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by David John Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK – JUNE 14: Marcell Ozuna #23 of the St. Louis Cardinals warms up in the on deck circle during the game against the New York Mets at Citi Field on June 14, 2019 in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Rob Tringali/SportsChrome/Getty Images)
NEW YORK – JUNE 14: Marcell Ozuna #23 of the St. Louis Cardinals warms up in the on deck circle during the game against the New York Mets at Citi Field on June 14, 2019 in the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Rob Tringali/SportsChrome/Getty Images) /

Texas Rangers: Sign Marcell Ozuna

The Texas Rangers saw their pursuit of Anthony Rendon came up way short and they have no interest in signing Josh Donaldson. As they prepare to open a new ballpark in 2020, time is running out for the Rangers to make a splashy move to bolster their chances of winning next year and maximize their first-year attendance bump at the new stadium.

Left fielder Marcell Ozuna played himself into mid-range free-agent status with two inconsistent seasons with the St. Louis Cardinals. Once seemingly destined for a $100-million contract, Ozuna now might be lucky to land a four-year deal for more than $60 million. He hit just .262/.327/.451 with 52 home runs and 177 RBI with the Cardinals. Those numbers pale in comparison to his best season in Miami, where he hit .312/.376/.548 with 37 home runs and 124 RBI.

Still only 29, it’s hard to believe Ozuna’s best days are completely behind him.

He showed flashes of brilliance with St. Louis, including a monster performance in the NLDS last year. For Ozuna, it’s going to come down to finding a situation where he feels comfortable and staying healthy. The Rangers are an attractive landing spot and have a need for a corner outfielder after throwing in the towel and dealing away Nomar Mazara.

There has been little movement on Ozuna’s market, and the Cardinals aren’t in a hurry to bring him back. The Rangers have emerged as one of the frontrunners to sign him, and if an offer comes in, Ozuna should jump at the chance. Despite their move indoors, the Rangers new park still figures to be one of the most hitter-friendly in the league. Hitting in a lineup with Joey Gallo would also help Ozuna get back on track.

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