In an ongoing series, we'll take a look at possible free-agent and trade targets for the Texas Rangers this winter.
Target: Jonathon Niese, LHP
2014 stats: 9-11, 3.40 ERA, 138 strikeouts, 45 walks, 187 2/3 innings pitched
Niese is a controllable lefty, who has team options through 2018, and he's been consistently solid for the past three seasons in New York. In each of those three seasons, he's put up ERAs in the mid-3.00s and made 30 starts in both 2014 and 2012, while he missed some significant time in 2013, making just 24 starts.
He's been a solid No. 3 or No. 4 starter for most of his career with the Mets, which is the type of guy the Rangers are really looking for, and the Mets are looking for a shortstop. Of course, we know the Rangers have plenty to offer there.
