So, just when we thought the Rangers were pretty much set on their pitching staff – from ace to closer – there comes word from the Winter Meetings that they’re being tempted to trade one of their best, most consistent arms.
Shawn Tolleson, anyone?
General manager Jon Daniels confirmed to reporters last night in Nashville that the team has received a couple inquiries about their bullpen pitchers, most notably Tolleson. You’d think to part with an elite closer, Texas would ask for a starting pitcher or a power right-handed bat in return.
As we’ve learned, closer is one of the easiest positions to fill. Tolleson, for example, was merely a set-up man to Neftali Feliz last year in Spring Training. But when Feliz faltered, he was promoted and wound up converting 35 of 37 save chances.
While the Astros, Blue Jays, Nationals and now the Dodgers are logical suitors in the market for closers, the Rangers would likely find their 9th-inning man from a group that includes new acquisition Tom Wilhelmsen, Sam Dyson, Keone Kela and Jake Diekman.
As solid as he was last year, I think Tolleson is replaceable.
A native Texan who was born in Duncanville and graduated from UT-Arlington, Richie Whitt has been a mainstay in the Metroplex media since 1986. He’s held prominent roles on all media platforms including newspaper (Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Dallas Observer), radio (105.3 The Fan) and TV (co-host on TXA 21 and numerous guest appearances, including NBC 5). He lives in McKinney with his wife, Sybil, and two very spoiled dogs.
