In an ongoing series, we'll take a look at possible free-agent and trade targets for the Texas Rangers this winter.
Target: Chris Young, RHP
2014 stats: 12-9, 3.65 ERA, 108 strikeouts, 60 walks, 165 innings pitched
The Rangers have made it known they're still searching for another starting pitcher to place in the rotation with Yu Darvish, Derek Holland, Colby Lewis and possibly some combination of Ross Detwiler, Nick Tepesch and Nick Martinez, though Martinez would probably be best served pitching in the minors.
To do that, they could look at a former homegrown pitcher in Chris Young. The 6-10 Highland Park native came up in the Rangers' organization after he was drafted by Pittsburgh. He made his major-league debut with the Rangers in 2003 and was one of their best starters in 2004 before being traded to San Diego.
Last season in Seattle, he made a case for Comeback Player of the Year while helping the Mariners' playoff hopes go down to the last day of the season in what was a big year for them. He's a free agent and could command a nice deal after his bounce-back season, but it would still be within the Rangers' budget.
