Possible Texas Rangers trade targets as winter meetings begin

Sep 23, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Andrew Cashner (34) pitches against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Cashner – Starting pitcher, San Diego Padres

Texas has made it known that finding a veteran starter to sure up the back end of the rotation is an offseason priority. One possibility may be 29-year-old Andrew Cashner.

The front offices of Texas and San Diego have a great relationship since the Padres’ general manager is former Texas front office executive A.J. Preller.

What makes Cashner attractive is that he is relatively affordable since he is still under arbitration control. Last season he earned a modest $4 million.

With a career ERA of 3.59, Cashner could be a viable option for a one-year audition with Texas. His 4.24 ERA in 2015 was the highest of his career and Texas could benefit from having Cashner motivated headed into free agency.

Trading for the big righty would give young prospects in the Texas system like Chi Chi Gonzalez another year to develop before being thrust into a full-time role in the Texas rotation.

The Padres are also rumored to be looking to trade pitchers James Shields or Tyson Ross. But Shields brings a heavy contract and Ross would cost a King’s ransom in top prospects so Cashner might be the most likely San Diego pitcher Texas would target.

Next: Stephen Strasburg