Is Mitch Moreland staying with the Texas Rangers

It’s been rumored that the Tampa Bay Rays have been inquiring about first baseman Mitch Moreland since the trade for Prince Fielder.

Sep 30, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers first baseman Mitch Moreland (18) hits a single against the Tampa Bay Rays during the fifth inning at Rangers Ballpark at Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

There was the possibility of a trade that might have included a package to bring David Price to the Texas Rangers in exchange for Mitch Moreland along with several other players.

Also, besides the rumor about a possible Price trade, there were talks about swapping Matt Joyce for Moreland.

It appears now though, those options are gone.

Today the Tampa Bays Rays have came to an agreement with first baseman James Loney on a 3 year deal worth $21 million.    The former Dodger and Red Sox played for the Rays last year playing very well for them batting a .299/.348/.430/.778 with 13 home runs and 75 RBI.

That option for the Rays was clearly better and they got him at a good price.

Mitch Moreland will likely play at first base and DH some in the 2014 season for the Texas Rangers. Last year he had a batting average of .232/.299/.437/.736 with 23 home runs and 60 RBI. He was down from his 2012 numbers, but he should rebound in 2014 since he is now heathly.