The top three names that come to mind from the Rangers' perspective would be Joey Gallo, Jorge Alfaro, and Nomar Mazara. Gallo and Alfaro, to me, would seem to be the least likely to be traded, with Mazara also presenting an intriguing set of tools as he has vaulted himself into being among the more prized prospects in the Texas organization.



Of interest, I think, would be that Philadelphia needs to rebuild the middle of their infield after sending away Jimmy Rollins. Texas, of course, has a potential logjam at the position. However, because of the uncertain status of Jurickson Profar's recovery, I think Texas will wait and see before doing anything rash.

Hamels would represent a significant addition to the Texas pitching staff that current comprises of Darvish, Holland, Lewis, and some combination of Nick Martinez, Nick Tepesch, and possibly (hopefully) Matt Harrison at some point. Hamels has been good for about 3.5-4 WAR a season, and has started 30 or more games in seven straight seasons, so he's been pretty durable.

In the end, this is a deal I don't see happening before the season begins. Perhaps if Texas is in contention near the trade deadline and appear to be one pitcher away from getting over the top, Jon Daniels could make a move like he did in 2010 to snag Cliff Lee. Speaking of Lee, he could be another intriguing possibility if he's able to show anything prior to the trade deadline.

Whatever the case, this would seem to be a case where we'll be left speculating more than seeing a trade actualize, but hey, this is what happens during the winter. Last season, the Rangers were supposedly done spending, and days later signed Shin-Soo Choo. Crazier things have been known to happen.