Texas Rangers Wiretap

Texas, Cardinals And Dodgers Showing Most Interest In Benson

The Dodgers, Rangers, and Cardinals, sources say, are showing the most consistent interest in Benson, according to a major-league source. Benson, 34, underwent rotator-cuff surgery in March 2007 and last pitched in the majors in 2006.

An executive from a club with interest in Benson said he looks only "so-so," in his throwing sessions. "Better than expected," the exec said, "but not great."

Via FoxSports


Rangers Now More Likely To Land Sheets?

With the Yankees having signed Andy Pettitte, the Rangers could become more aggressive in their pursuit of free-agent pitcher Ben Sheets.

The Yankees were believed to be one of the teams quietly interested in Sheets, but now their rotation appears full.

"Anytime somebody signs another starting pitcher, that obviously lessens the competition," Rangers 'president Nolan Ryan said Monday afternoon. "Obviously, Andy and Ben are at two different points in their careers, but I don't think Andy signing hurts anything."

Texas is the only team that has publicly confirmed their interest in Sheets, who has an injury-plagued past.

Via MLB.com


Rangers Cautious In Pursuit Of Sheets

The Rangers are taking a cautious approach in their pursuit of free-agent pitcher Ben Sheets.

Texas is concerned about the medical reports they have regarding Sheets. He had a right flexor tendon injury at the end of last season, and that has scared off a number of teams.

The Rangers would prefer to sign Sheets to just a one-year deal, possibly with an option.

Via MLB.com


Rangers Jan 2009 Archive

  • Rangers Introduce Alternate Red Uniforms

    The Rangers announced Friday that their alternate uniform for the 2009 season will feature a red top and red cap.

  • Sheets Meets With Rangers

    Ben Sheets spent Thursday visiting the Rangers in Arlington, Tex., according to major-league sources.

  • Rangers Nearing Deal With Vizquel

    The Rangers are getting close to a deal with free-agent shortstop Omar Vizquel, according to a major league source.

  • Francisco Agrees To $1.6M Deal With Texas

    Relief pitcher Frank Francisco on Monday agreed to a one-year deal with the Texas Rangers.

  • Young Still Not Taking Phone Calls From GM

    Michael Young is not returning phone calls from GM Jon Daniels, but he is willing to be a mentor to Elvis Andrus, who is taking his position at shortstop.

  • Rangers Still Want Buccholz For Saltalamacchia

    The Red Sox continue to explore trade talks with the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks in their search for a catcher.

  • Rangers' Young Reluctantly Moves To Third

    Rangers infielder Michael Young has reluctantly agreed to move from shortstop to third base so that the team can begin grooming Elvis Andrus.

  • Yankees, Tigers, And Rangers Wanted Smoltz?

    The Yankees, Tigers, and Rangers were believed to covet free agent pitcher John Smoltz before he agreed to sign with the Red Sox.

  • GM Expects Young To Be With Rangers

    Rangers general manager Jon Daniels expects Michael Young to be with the team in Spring Training, despite the shortstop's trade request.

  • Braves, Rangers Interested In Ben Sheets?

    It is believed that the Braves and Rangers could give free agent pitcher Ben Sheets the type of lengthy contract he wants.

  • Could Valentine Return To Rangers?

    There is some belief that Rangers' president Nolan Ryan might look to bring former manager Bobby Valentine and pitching coach Tom House back to the organization.

  • Young: 'I'm Not Playing Third Base'

    Rangers shortstop Michael Young asked for a trade after the team asked him to move to third base to make room for shortstop prospect Elvis Andrus.

  • Rangers Looking To Trade Young?

    Rangers' GM Jon Daniels said Sunday night that the team has looked into trade possibilities, but remains hopeful that Michael Young will remain in Texas.

  • A-Rod And Tex Didn't Get Along When They Were Teammates?

    Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira were teammates in 2003.

  • Grading The Deal: Bradley To Wrigley

    The Cubs badly needed a left handed bat with pop to play the outfield, and although they got the 2008 AL leader in OPS, it will be a difficult move to like three years on.

  • Cubs Sign Bradley To $30M Deal

    The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with free-agent outfielder Milton Bradley.

  • No Truth To Michael Young To Boston Rumors

    There was some talk that after being rebuffed by the Marlins on Hanley Ramirez, the Red Sox might have interest in Michael Young, but according to major league sources, that's not true.

  • Turnbow, Rangers Agree To Deal

    The Rangers reached a tentative agreement with free-agent right-hander Derrick Turnbow on a one-year contract Wednesday night.