Rangers “Not Really In On” Pujols or Fielder

The Winter Meetings kicked off with a bang last night when the Miami Marlins signed shortstop Jose Reyes to a six-year, $106 million deal. With that move, the first of the big name free agents was scratched from the board.

Still remaining are a handful of names that have been linked to the Texas Rangers in one way or another. Left hander C.J. Wilson remains on the market, but word is that many of his suitors have been scared off by his high price tag. While I still think it’s highly unlikely that Wilson returns to the Lone Star State, the Rangers have not been ruled out as of yet, either.

Despite the (apparently) unfounded rumors that circulated the twittersphere throughout the day yesterday, Joel Sherman of the New York Post tweeted this morning that the Rangers are continuing to tell anyone who will listen that they are “not really in on” either Albert Pujols or Prince Fielder.

Speculations about either of those two joining the Rangers has been consistent since the end of the World Series. If there is an obvious place to upgrade the Rangers team, it would be at first base, where Mitch Moreland struggled last season. Moreland was playing through a wrist injury down the stretch, which certainly didn’t help his production. Last month, Moreland underwent surgery on his troublesome wrist; he is expected to be ready by the start of Spring Training.

While I won’t rule out the Rangers making a big splash this week, my guess is that if/when they do, the move will be for a pitcher. I have my doubts that said pitcher will be Wilson, but Texas will be checking in on relievers and could yet add a front-line starting pitcher either through free agency or trade.

If the Rangers do sign a bat, the more likely scenario would be a centerfielder, which would allow Josh Hamilton to spend more time in left field and hopefully take some of the stress off of his fragile body.

We’ll keep you updated on all the Rangers-related happening from Dallas this week, so check back often.

Don’t be shy, comments are always welcome. If you’d like to stay informed, be sure to follow us onTwitter and don’t forget to Like our Facebook page.