Per reports, Texas Rangers are interested in at least three free agent pitchers

Charlie Morton

Morton just turned 35. His age will prevent a long-term deal; however, his numbers will warrant a worthy figure. The former Astro has improved with age. He posted a 14-7 record and 3.62 ERA in 2017 and a 15-3 record to coincide a 3.13 ERA in 2018. That means he’s won 75% of his decisions over the last two seasons. Not too shabby.

In addition, Morton’s fastball velocity has increased over the years. His four-seamer averaged 92.9 mph in 2015 and worked its way up to 96.6 mph in 2018 (per Fangraphs). He’s also known for possessing one of the better curveballs in the game.

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Control can be a problem at times, but it only contributes to his nasty stuff and makes him that much more difficult to hit. 2018 marked the first 200 strikeout season of his career. He recorded 201 of them in only 167 innings pitched.

What does everything I just wrote lead up to?

Charlie Morton will likely draw interest from many teams. And the pool will of course include a few contenders. Needless to say, the competition will be steep for the Rangers.

Morton made just $7 million in each of the past two seasons. I doubt he’ll be looking for a massive number, but he’ll certainly have the luxury of accepting an offer from the highest bidder. The number of years is what a signing will likely come down to, however. Teams offering two or three years will have the best shots.