Target: Bartolo Colon, RHP
2013 stats: 18-6, 2.65 ERA, 190 1/3 innings, three shutouts, 117 strikeouts, 29 walks
Colon is a very interesting case for the Rangers, for several reasons. He rejuvenated his lengthy career over the past two seasons pitching for the Rangers' biggest rival, the Oakland A's. He's 40 years old and is seeking a two-year deal, which Oakland balked at, and many other teams likely will, too. The Rangers surely wouldn't give him a two-year deal, but if no one else does, look for the Rangers to be serious players on a one-year deal and possibly even a club option for a second — or some sort of vesting option, perhaps.
He, like Nelson Cruz, was involved in the Biogenesis scandal and missed 50 games in 2012, but came back in 2013 and put up Cy Young worthy numbers despite not being a big strikeout pitcher anymore. He's evolved into a Greg Maddux-type pitcher, painting corners and outpitching opposing hitters.
Sure, he pitched in one of the most pitcher friendly parks in baseball in Oakland, but he also shut down the Rangers in Texas. Dude can straight pitch, and he can do it anywhere. He's proven that. His age is definitely a concern, as it should be, but if the deal is right it could definitely be a nice fit for the Rangers to shore up their pitching staff.
