Boasting a 32-44 record heading into Thursday’s action, the last-place Texas Rangers will certainly look to sell off some veteran assets between now and next month’s trade deadline.
Despite the team’s struggles, there are multiple veterans that could intrigue contending teams. That includes All-Star third baseman Adrian Beltre.
According to this report from Jon Paul Morosi, that includes both the Cleveland Indians and Philadelphia Phillies.
“At least some within the Indians organization would like to acquire Beltre, particularly given his history playing for Cleveland manager Terry Francona during his one season in Boston,” Morosi notes. “The Phillies also have interest in Beltre, sources say, as much for his professionalism as his production.”
Given that Beltre has 10-and-5 rights, he can pretty much veto any trade. It remains to be seen if Philadelphia or Cleveland would be on that list. Though, Beltre’s relationship with Francona could come into play.
The 39-year-old Beltre is hitting .302 with a solid .357 on-base percentage on the season. Outside of his production on the diamond, the 21-year veteran would be a clubhouse leader for any team looking to trade for him.
Boasting a young core, Philadelphia is a surprising 39-33 on the season. It could use help at third base, where Maikel Franco is turning in a disappointing campaign with a .240 average and a .284 on-base mark.
Obvious favorites in the AL Central, Cleveland has a tremendous player in Jose Ramirez at third. Any move to acquire Beltre would likely include him taking over as the team’s everyday first baseman — a role currently held by Yonder Alonso.
If not, Ramirez might move to second with Beltre remaining at third, with Jason Kipnis and Yonder Alonso fighting for playing time. Either way, it would be a good problem for Cleveland to have.