Possible Texas Rangers trade targets as winter meetings begin

Sep 26, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg (37) throws against the Philadelphia Phillies during the fourth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Strasburg – Starting Pitcher, Washington Nationals

It almost seems unbelievable to hear that the Nationals are shopping the right hander who just three years ago was considered the game’s next pitching phenomenon.

Only 27, Strasburg will be a free agent following next season and he could command a huge contract. The fire-balling righty started only 23 games last season, the lowest total since he joined the Nationals rotation full time in 2012.

His 3.46 ERA in 2015 was his career-worst but is still nothing to be ashamed of. Thus, if Washington is inclined to trade Strasburg, it will require a rich package from Texas.

It has been reported that Washington covets some of the Rangers’ young middle infielders like Rougned Odor or Jurickson Profar. Texas is not going to part with Odor after his excellent second half of 2015 and Profar’s two-year injury hiatus makes it likely that Texas would have to sweeten the pot if it is to trade for Strasburg.

Another consideration to keep in mind is that the Nationals have already lost two starting pitchers, Doug Fister and Jordan Zimmerman to free agency this offseason likely driving up the asking price for Strasburg.

Next: Charlie Morton