Rosenthal: Rangers 'listening' on Gallardo, could be both buyers and sellers
The Texas Rangers are in an uncertain place in the AL West, entering play Wednesday 44-49 and staring at a nine-game deficit below the first-place Los Angeles Angels.
Despite their standing in the division, they're only six games out of a Wild Card spot. That uncertainty of placement might make them dual buyers AND sellers when the July 31 non-waiver trading deadline rolls around. As a result, FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported on Tuesday night, the club is 'listening' to offers for ace Yovani Gallardo even while still being 'involved' in discussions for Cole Hamels of the Philadelphia Phillies:
Sources: #Rangers listening on Gallardo even while involved in Hamels talks. Reported over weekend that they could both buy and sell.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 22, 2015
So far in 2015, Gallardo is 7-9 with a 2.91 ERA, an FIP of 3.68 and a WHIP of 1.270, all impressive figures when you take into account he pitches frequently at the hitter's haven of Globe Life Park in Arlington.
Gallardo is a free-agent-to-be making $13 million in the final year of his contract, so it will be worth watching to see what the Rangers decide to do with him. After all, should he leave after the season an sign with another team, Texas would be eligible for draft pick compensation if the club makes him a qualifying offer.
