Despite appearances, the Texas Rangers possess some tradeable assets that could help replenish their farm system and support their aging lineup. Their continued offensive struggles — now in a second straight season — could push leadership toward action at the trade deadline. As columnist Joel Sherman notes, Rangers’ head of baseball operations Chris Young is not known for his patience.
Sherman suggests the team could look to move players on expiring contracts, particularly among their pitchers. The Rangers currently boast the third-best team ERA in MLB at 3.21. Veterans like Patrick Corbin, Tyler Mahle, and Jon Gray — all of whom are having solid seasons and are in the final year of their deals —
could be on the trade block. However, Sherman believes those potential moves aren’t likely to generate major excitement.
Jacob deGrom: Texas’ Most Intriguing Trade Asset
While gambling sponsorships are prevalent in MLB, the bigger question is whether teams are willing to gamble on Jacob deGrom’s health. The right-hander is approaching his highest innings total since 2022 and hasn’t topped 92 innings since 2019.
Sherman points out that while deGrom has a full no-trade clause and may prefer to stay put, he still possesses elite stuff and could be a postseason difference-maker if healthy. He’s under contract for two more seasons at $75 million, has a long injury history, but currently owns a 2.42 ERA (11th in MLB) and still averages 97.1 mph on his fastball. At age 37, however, time may be catching up to him.
Trade Market Outlook
Though the Rangers have several trade candidates, deGrom would be the biggest name — assuming a team is willing to take the risk. The Boston Red Sox, if healthy and competitive, could pursue a deal thanks to their financial flexibility. Other potential suitors include the New York Yankees, who lost ace Gerrit Cole to injury, as well as the Dodgers and Astros — both of whom could use rotation help as the postseason race heats up.
Ultimately, deGrom represents a high-risk, high-reward play. For more cautious front offices, a safer move might be targeting one of the Rangers’ other veteran starters. Still, a healthy deGrom could reshape the trade deadline in dramatic fashion.
