Texas Rangers: Top 5 Players Most Likely to be Traded

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.