Report: Rangers involved in ongoing talks for Rays' Moore
The Texas Rangers sit atop the American League West standings with a 4 1/2-game lead lead over the Houston Astros and with their team in need of starting pitching, they're looking at an arm to help keep their division lead.
Texas is engaged in ongoing trade talks with the Tampa Bay Rays for left-hander Matt Moore, sources told FOX Sports' Jon Morosi. The talks have included Rays relievers, as Texas wants to add a late-inning arm in addition to a starter.
The southpaw, who has been on the radar of the Rangers for close to a month, pitched solidly against the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday in a loss, allowing two earned runs on five hits.
Texas' rotation has fared well in 2016, posting a 4.11 ERA, good for third in the AL, but with Colby Lewis (strained lat) and Derek Holland (left shoulder inflammation) out long term, the team requires someone to fill the void.
Aside from their obvious need for an arm, Moore's team-friendly contract is appealing to the Rangers, too. He's earning $5 million this season and has a $7-million team option for 2017, $9-million team option for 2018, and $10-million team option in 2019.
The 27-year-old is 5-7 with a 4.33 ERA in 19 starts for the Rays this season.