Texas Rangers: Ranking the Top Deadline Deals Since 2000

4. July 31, 2015: Trading for Cole Hamels and Jake Diekman

(n-WAR: 6.3)

In 2015, on a deadline day move, the Rangers acquired ace Cole Hamels from the Phillies along with solid reliever, Jake Diekman. In this move that saw Texas send 6 players the other way, the Rangers picked up two players who were meant to bolster the pitching staff as Texas hoped for a deep playoff run.

Hamels, who immediately slotted in the rotation alongside Yu Darvish, is now the de facto ace of the Rangers. Even though he likely is on his way out this summer, made an All-Star game as a Ranger and was the pitching depth Texas was looking for at the time he was acquired. Diekman, a flame-throwing lefty, also has made his impact in Arlington. He cemented himself as a consistent late inning reliever and a fan favorite. Although he also could be moved this month, he and Cole were very important pickups for this franchise.

Going the other way, Texas sent 6 prospects to Philadelphia. Harrison, perhaps the most recognizable name for Rangers fans, never actually pitched again after the trade was made. Jerad Eickhoff has been the most successful player for the Phillies but has yet to pitch this season due to injury. The other four, while appearing in the majors, have yet to make any real impact at the big league level.

Part of the benefit of this trade will be seeing what the Rangers trade both players for this summer as well as how much of Hamels contract they can offload.

Next: Number 3