Rosenthal: Rangers interested in Upton, but budget an obstacle
The Texas Rangers are in search of right-handed power and are apparently intrested in free-agent outfielder Justin Upton, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.
Sources: #Rangers interested in JUpton on one-year contract, but budget an issue. Upton plans to keep exploring market, seeking longer deal.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 6, 2016
However, while Upton would be a solid fit alongside left-handed sluggers Prince Fielder, Shin-Soo Choo and Josh Hamilton in the Rangers' lineup, their financial flexibility might hinder the chances of a deal:
#Rangers also like Upton beyond one year: Beltre, team’s only real RH power, entering final year of deal. But again, budget an obstacle.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 6, 2016
Upton is in the class of highly coveted free-agent outfielders that includes Yoenis Cespedes and Alex Gordon (though Gordon just re-signed with the Kansas City Royals for four years and $72 million).
In 2015 with the San Diego Padres, Upton hit .251/.356/.454 with 26 home runs, 81 RBI and a 4.4 WAR.
