Texas Rangers Need to Trade Jonathan Lucroy Before Deadline

We’re now just days away from the July 31st trade deadline. It could be a big day for the Texas Rangers organization. Plenty veteran names have been discussed in trades, but one Rangers player must be moved.

As of right now the Texas Rangers have not traded any of their one-year veteran players. General manager Jon Daniels could be waiting until other players get moved before finalizing any deals. Regardless if others get moved, catcher Jonathan Lucroy must go.

The two-time All-Star is in his first full season with the Rangers. He’s hitting .242 with four home runs and 27 RBI in 77 games. It’s apparent Lucroy is having a disappointing season and the Rangers need to cash-in and get what they can.

Last August the Rangers gave up a package of young talent prospects for Lucroy. It’s highly unlikely the team can that kind of value now. The 31-year-old catcher is eligible for free agency after the season.

The biggest bidder for Lucroy right now seems to be the Colorado Rockies. There’s little chance the Rockies give up top-tier prospects for a catcher hitting around .240 with a -0.5 WAR.

Apparently the Rangers want to hang onto starter Andrew Cashner who is also on a one-year deal. The difference between the two is that Lucroy is looking for a long-term commitment this winter.

There is absolutely no reason for the Ranges to sign Lucroy long-term. The Rangers have Robinson Chirinos to hold down the catcher position for now. In the minors they have catcher Jose Trevino which the organization hopes can become an everyday catcher.

Next: Which Rangers Will Be Traded?

The Rangers have enough veteran players locked into long-term deals. This season Lucroy has shown the Rangers no reason to re-sign him. Jon Daniels should trade Lucroy and get whatever he can for the aging catcher.