Day 3 – Midday Report Winter Meetings

Today is the 3rd day of the 112th Baseball Winter meetings in Orlando, Florida at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.  Here is a quick midday report.

Dec 9, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; People walk past a sign at MLB Winter Meetings at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

The Texas Rangers are still looking for another player, they are current in the mix with Jamey Carroll.  His primary role is as an utility man.  He has an average of .342 as a pinch hitter.  Indians and Rays are also looking at him.

Rangers could still find pitching this offseason.  The is word they are interested in former Athletics pitcher Barolo Colon. It’s reported that Bartolo Colon‘s rep is focused on getting a two-year deal.

None Rangers news…Astros trying to make some offseason moves.  They have interest in Joba Chamberlain.

Jon Daniels says they are not currently talking to any free-agents.  Could be a play here.  Don’t tip your hand.

Also, from Jon Daniels, Nelson Cruz doesn’t owe Texas a discount to return.

The primary focus for the Rangers continues to be another bat.  They could use a pitcher, but that’s not the main concern.

Texas Rangers have also been rumored to be inquiring about Matt Kemp.  It’s unlikely that he will be traded.  Read more   Although Jon Morosi reports he could still be dealt.  But the Rangers should pass on this one.  Kemp has healthy and cost issues.

The TexasRangers say the asking price for Shin-Soo Choo is going to high.  But with Diamondbacks out of the mix, the market could cool for Choo.  The Rangers are still looking at him, but also the Mariners, Tigers and Red Sox are in that group.   If the price and years are right, the Rangers should sign Choo over Nelson Cruz.

Mainly because Shin-Soo Choo has a better on base percentage and defense then Cruz.

Ron Washington is expecting big things out of Leonys Martin next year.  Martin should be the lead off man next year.   Martin has the arm and speed to be a great defender.  Last year Martin was excellent at throwing guys out from center outfield.

Eric Nadel is the recipient of the 2014 Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence. – John Blake

Well deserved and congrats to Nadel for the award.  Read more here

Rays are still shopping David Price – David Price’s agent tells Ken Rosenthal his client would not consider contract extension with the Mariners  but would with other clubs – Todd Kaufman

Free agent Matt Garza gaining traction, but not with the Texas Rangers.  – Lots of activity on garza at moment. #dbacks #twins #angels #others. no word of anything imminent tho. Jon Heyman

So far, it has been slow for the Texas Rangers.  It may stay that way after their first two big moves with Prince Fielder and Michael Choice.