Speaking at a luncheon in Fort Worth on Friday, Rangers GM Jon Daniels emphasized that his team is unlikely to re-sign Nelson Cruz or sign Masahiro Tanaka, Gerry Fraley of the Dallas Morning News reports. Daniels said the Rangers are still in touch with Cruz's agent, Adam Katz, but that "it’s highly unlikely he’ll be back. He’d have a better opportunity elsewhere." Daniels still did not completely rule out the possibility of a return, however. Daniels did not go into specifics on Tanaka, but said, "We’ve spent our budget, and then some."
Daniels' comments were made prior to the news about Derek Holland's knee injury and surgery, which should keep Holland out until midseason. Daniels very likely would have already have been aware of Holland's situation, however, since Holland suffered the injury Tuesday. Reporting last night indicated that, even after Holland's injury, the Rangers were unlikely to pursue Tanaka or another big-name starting pitching option.
I’m not counting Texas out. I think there’s a solid 8-10 teams that have a legitimate shot for Tanaka. I know most people think he’s going to run after the money, I think he will go to where he is wanted most and somewhere he can feel comfortable.
I think this could be mis-direction from JD. He tends to play his cards close to his vest. For example w/ Choo: “We will continue to build around our club, but the (Fielder/Kinsler) trade will likely be our biggest marquee name signing” 2 weeks later Choo is a Ranger.
Are the Rangers front runners for Tanaka’s services… That remains to be seen, but I’d venture to say they are definately in on the discussion – especially with the Holland news
Anything is possible but you got to figure they are getting near their payroll ceiling
To be fair, Fielder was still the biggest marquee name signing but you’re right, he is never going to let his plans be known to anyone outside of his group. Never has and I love it as a fan.
It’s been reported that TX is closely monitoring the Tanaka situation so they might be in but I’d assume NY and LA are the front runners money wise but who knows. I home they are pursuing him but not overpaying.
Rangers and Cubs could be a match for a trade once again with Samardjia. He is a good pitcher, low cost and controlled a couple more years. Plus the Rangers have the pitching prospects the Cubs desire.
Agreed, smart post
Figure the Cubs would start by asking for Gonzalez, and build around that. I think Jackson is top-10 in the Rangers’ organization, but could end up being a late reliever without a solid third pitch.
I think Tanaka wants the combo of best pay/best change to win. He could leave some money on the table, turning down teams like the Cubs that might hand him a blank check. That being said, Texas has a chance as a contender, but with all contenders being equal, I think Tanaka will end up in Boston, LA or NY–as then deeper pockets win. The Rangers might want to hold off until the TV money kicks in and then splurge on bringing Kershaw home. I think they have a real shot at that happening.
Tanaka just went from a slight chance, to a better chance. Holland is out till mid season, now rangers need at least one more starter. I’m expecting to the the Rangers grab some sort of starter even if not Tanaka. I put a 100% chance of them signing a starting pitcher.
Tanaka and a Nelson Cruz both may end up in Seattle playing for the Mariners as outfielders in free agency are minimal. Both will be a good fit for the M’s.