The 10 Most Influential Trades in Texas Rangers History

By Chris Giles | Jan 5, 2022

OAKLAND, CA - JULY 17: Mark Teixeira #23 of the Texas Rangers bats during the game against the Oakland Athletics at McAfee Coliseum on July 17, 2005 in Oakland, California. The A's defeated the Rangers 5-4 in 14 innings. (Photo by Brad Mangin /MLB Photos via Getty Images) /

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Texas Rangers Cruz trade /

#5- Nelson Cruz acquired from Milwaukee (2006)

Nelson Cruz was traded to Texas as part of a significant trade with Milwaukee. The Rangers traded former all-star reliever Francisco Cordero, outfielder Kevin Mench, outfielder Laynce Nix, and a minor leaguer to the Brewers for impending free agent outfielder Carlos Lee and promising rookie outfielder Cruz.

Cordero enjoy six more seasons as a relief pitcher before retiring at age 37. Mench played four more seasons for three organizations before retiring at age 30. Nix played seven more seasons for four organizations before retiring at age 32.

Cruz became a two-time all-star with Texas. In eight seasons, Cruz hit 157 HR and added 489 RBI’s for the Rangers. On October 31, 2013, Cruz was granted free agency.

In 2021, Cruz finished his 17th season in MLB. He has played for four more organizations and is a seven-time all-star. In 1,882 career games, Cruz has hit 449 HR and added 1,238 RBI’s.

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