As baseball’s trade deadline nears, trade rumors circulate with more frequency. That’s the last thing Rangers ace Mike Minor wants.

“I feel like ever since I signed it’s been a topic,” Minor told the Star-Telegram. “It’s almost like I signed just so they could trade me.”

The 31-year-old signed a three-year, $28 million contract as a free agent before the 2018 season. Minor has broken out this season, leading pitchers in wins above replacement at 6.0, holding an 8-4 record with a 2.73 ERA and 1.164 WHIP. He already has 121 strikeouts through 19 starts after striking out 132 in 28 starts last season.

“It does piss us off,” Minor said of all constant rumors, which have linked him to the Phillies and Brewers, among others.

Time is running out for Rangers general manager Jon Daniels to make a decision. Last week, Daniels said he was not likely to trade the southpaw, but it ultimately comes down to how the Rangers perform in the coming weeks.

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The Rangers are five back in the AL wild-card race with a 50-46 record. They have not made the postseason since 2016.

Minor has made it clear that he does not want to be traded, and is scheduled to pitch on Friday in Houston.