In an ongoing series, we'll take a look at possible free-agent and trade targets for the Texas Rangers this winter.
Target: Carlos Gonzalez, OF
2014 stats: .238 batting average, .292 on-base percentage, .723 OPS, 15 doubles, 11 home runs, 38 RBIs, 70 games
Gonzalez is still owed $53 million over the last three years of his contract, and he'll only be 31 when that deal expires. However, thanks to injury and some other factors, Gonzalez regressed in a big way in 2014 with the Rockies, who are said to be shopping their high-priced, very talented outfielder. And guess what? The Rangers are looking for a corner outfielder, where Gonzalez would fit very nicely as a three-time Gold Glove winner.
But make no mistake, Gonzalez is more than just a glove. He, in recent history, was one of the most feared hitters in baseball. Since 2010, throwing out last season, his worst year at the plate was a .295 season. Every other year, he's hit over .300 and led the league with a .336 average in 2010. The big question with Gonzalez is how much his numbers were boosted by playing in Colorado, where pitchers go to die. Well, that an his now-extensive injury history.
Getting Cargo would probably take a pretty hefty package of prospects, and ultimately it likely wouldn't be worth it for the Rangers, but the Rockies have made it known he's available, so it'll be interesting to see what happens.
