In an ongoing series, we'll take a look at possible free-agent and trade targets for the Texas Rangers this winter.
Target: Francisco Liriano, LHP
2014 stats: 7-10, 3.38 ERA, 175 strikeouts, 81 walks, 162 1/3 innings
It's hard to believe Liriano is nearly 31 years old after he was one of the game's most promising young arms in his days with the Minnesota Twins back in the mid-2000s when he burst on the scene at age 21. Since then, Liriano has had arm surgery, been awful, and since has bounced back to put together two strong seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Liriano was in the NL Cy Young running in 2013 in what was his bounce-back season after three seasons in four years with an ERA above 5.00. He's still relatively young, and his arm is seemingly stronger than ever, so Liriano could be a nice addition to the Rangers' staff as a solid No. 3 starter.
