In an ongoing series, we'll take a look at possible free-agent and trade targets for the Texas Rangers this winter.
Target: Mark Trumbo, 1B/OF/DH
2014 stats: .235 batting average, .293 on-base percentage, 15 doubles, 14 home runs, 61 RBIs, 88 games
Trumbo is someone Rangers fans are awfully familiar with going back to his days with the Los Angeles Angels. He hit one of the most mammoth home runs in memory at Globe Life Park, and he's been an all-around pain in the Rangers' side.
His new team, the Arizona Diamondbacks are now reportedly shopping the 28-year-old power hitter after they signed Cuban defector Yasmany Tomas to be their new first baseman. Trumbo missed half of the 2014 season after an injury derailed a red-hot start. If you look back prior to 2014, he's pretty much a lock for 30 home runs and somewhere between 90 and 100 RBIs. He would definitely help fill a void the Rangers are looking for — a right-handed power bat that they have not had (other than Adrian Beltre) since Nelson Cruz left after the 2013 season.
In looking at possibly acquiring Trumbo, who is entering his first offseason as an arbitration eligible player, the Rangers have to consider him against Mitch Moreland, who is once again arb-eligible this winter will reportedly get an offer from the Rangers.
Trumbo has proven to have more power in his career than Moreland, but he's never going to be an average guy. Then again, Moreland really isn't either. The big difference is in the field, where Moreland is an above-average first baseman and can learn how to be an average at worst corner outfielder. Trumbo is below average in both regards.
