Texas Rangers: Top 5 Players Most Likely to be Traded

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ARLINGTON, TX – MAY 22: Cole Hamels #35 of the Texas Rangers throws against the New York Yankees at Globe Life Park in Arlington on May 22, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

The Texas Rangers are clear sellers as they enter into trade season. Who is on the rumor mill and what is the likelihood each rumored player is traded?

It’s that time of the year. Trade season is just around the corner; thus, it’s time to start the rumors. Teams are in the process of determining whether they will be buyers or sellers up until the July 31st trade deadline. Though, some teams already know where they stand. For example, the Texas Rangers will clearly be sellers.

Texas has declared rebuild mode. The organization will look to move players with unfavorable contracts, along with the older players on their roster. They may also try to take advantage of a few players that have upped their value this season.

Frankly, the Rangers aren’t equipped with the type of trade bait that will qualify as “blockbuster”. It is unlikely they will acquire any five-star prospects or any proven big leaguers. With that said, they have enough to help strengthen their farm system’s inventory.

So, who might be on the move over the next month and a half? Here are the five Texas Rangers that are most likely to be traded…

Cole Hamels

Trade likelihood: 100%

This one should come as little to no surprise to attentive Rangers’ fans. Cole Hamels is by far the best pitcher on the staff and probably the player with the most trade value on the roster. He is a proven left-handed pitcher that could help a number of teams by providing talent and leadership. He is an outstanding option for teams that are looking to add depth to their rotation as the year shortens.

Hamels is under contract through next season; however, 2019 is a team option. He will also have the power to veto trades. Despite the power, the former World Series champion and World Series MVP shouldn’t be too particular if given the opportunity to join a contender.

Although he is in his age 34 season, he has seen very little drop-off in talent. His 3-6 record does not speak fairly to his 3.69 ERA in 2018. Hamels won’t be the ace for any team that is flirting with the playoffs, but he will surely fit into the middle of most rotations.

As long as the lefty stays healthy and keeps putting forth quality efforts, the Rangers should have no trouble moving him. Though, if they want any significant return, Texas may be wise to add another name to the trade. A deal parallel to the one in which the Philadelphia Phillies sent Hamels and Jake Diekman to the Rangers, for instance.

Obviously, each has lost value of the last four years. Still, they carry significant value.

Adrian Beltre

Trade Likelihood: 90%

It’s truly sad to say this, but Adrian Beltre’s days in a Texas Ranges uniform are numbered. The future Hall of Famer will be a free agent after this season. He is still a phenomenal hitter, as indicated by his .329 batting average and .386 OBP.

Unfortunately, the 39-year-old is a DL visit waiting to happen. Potential suitors will have some bargaining power given Beltre’s injury proneness and his limitations in the field. Regardless, Beltre will be dealt. Texas has no reason to keep him for a few more months, especially with a few guys ready to take over at third base.

The loss of Beltre will make the Rangers worse in the short run, but the move will be best in the long run. The Rangers need to give younger players as many looks as possible. As awesome as it is to have Beltre on the roster, he is currently taking experience away from someone else. Plus, there is no reason for a pending 39-year-old free agent to be a part of a rebuild.

A realistic return on Adrian Beltre is unknown. I’d like to think he is worth a decent prospect. His limited range and lack of durability on defense will likely restrict him to the American League. Perhaps teams such as the Minnesota Twins or Los Angeles Angels will show some interest.

Jake Diekman

Trade Likelihood: 75%

Jake Diekman has overcome a rough start to the season and is now pitching like the left-handed slinger we’ve all come to know over the years. Like Beltre, Diekman will also be a free agent come the 2019 offseason.

Left-handed relievers are always are always a commodity. Given Diekman’s trending dominance and his overall track record, it should be fairly easy to move him. After all, he pitched to a 2.70 ERA in May and he has yet to give up a run over five innings in June.

Again, combining him with another valuable trade piece is an option worth considering. The quality starter/quality reliever combo has become very common in recent trade seasons. It’s the best chance at an optimal return for the Texas Rangers.

Keone Kela

Trade Likelihood: 65%

This might not sit well with Rangers fans; however, Keone Kela’s value has skyrocketed in 2018. He is 15 for 15 in save opportunities this season and he is averaging over a strikeout per inning pitched. The 25-year-old is as dominant and as confident as ever, and that puts opponents in serious danger.

Dominant closers have been a trade deadline fad over the past few seasons. Kela may not have the reputation of a Aroldis Chapman or a Wade Davis, but he is right there with those guys in terms of performance (at least this season). He could be a major weapon out of the bullpen for a contender. Even if he doesn’t take on a closer role, a playoff worthy team will find a way to use him, and use him often.

In addition, Kela is under team control through the 2020 season. Thus, any team that acquires him will have control over his contract for the next two seasons. He won’t be a rental and the team that gets him will be getting a player that is on the rise in his career.

Sounds like an opportunity for the Texas Rangers to cash in, doesn’t it? They could probably obtain a nice prospect in exchange for Keone Kela.

Jurickson Profar

Trade Likelihood: 40%

Jurickson Profar has played well enough to earn everyday playing time. He has also played well enough to possibly be traded. His situation is the most interesting of them all.

The Texas Rangers of course have second baseman Rougned Odor under a big contract which recently took effect (6 years, $49.5 million). They also have all-star Elvis Andrus manning shortstop. Andrus has a buyout option after this season; though, it is unlikely he exercises it. Otherwise, he is signed through the 2023 season.