CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 20: Nathan Eovaldi #17 of the Texas Rangers pitches during the fourth round against the Chicago White Sox at Confirmed Rate Field on June 20, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reeves/Getty Images)
MLB Rumors: Rangers, Astros set for trade arms race to take AL West
Coming into the All-Star break, it looks like it will be at least a two-team race to take the AL West, with the Texas Rangers holding a two-game lead over the Houston Astros.
Despite the talent in both teams, it is surprising that both clubs managed to reach the 50-win mark before the break. The biggest move for the Rangers during the playoffs was the signing of Jacob deGrom, who made enough starts to count on your fingers before hitting EI and passing Tommy John. However, they are still at the top of the category.
In the Astros’ case, they’ve also been plagued by injuries. Lance McCullers Jr. has not played and will not play this season, Luis Garcia is done for the year with Tommy John surgery, and Jose Urquid has missed most of the season.
So what does it all add up to? As The Athletic’s Jim Bowden (subscription required) points out, both the Rangers and Astros will be in the pitching market. Even after Arldis Chapman lands, the Rangers could use another starter and more bullpen help, with the Astros desperately looking for a starter.
I think both clubs are going to make moves to meet those playing needs. But the arms race in the AL West, so to speak, at the trade deadline leaves us with the answer to which team made the best trade to jump at the deadline. That could ultimately be the deciding factor in the division, adding a lot of uncertainty to what either team will do.
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