The Texas Rangers, fresh off their first World Series title, have some offseason moves to consider in order to defend their championship in 2024. Here’s one trade and one signing the Rangers should consider:
**Trade: Acquire RHP Shane Bieber from the Guardians**
With Max Scherzer, Tyler Mahle, and Jacob deGrom expected to miss significant portions of the 2024 season, the Rangers need to bolster their starting rotation. Entering the final year of arbitration, the 28-year-old Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians could be a valuable addition. The Guardians, looking to capitalize on their young pitching staff, might entertain offers for Bieber. The Rangers could offer first baseman Nathaniel Lowe and pitcher Jon Gray as part of the deal. Bieber, the 2020 AL Cy Young Award winner, would provide a top-of-the-rotation arm to complement the team’s powerful offense.
**Signing: Add first baseman C.J. Cron to replace Lowe**
In the hypothetical trade involving Nathaniel Lowe, the Rangers should look to sign C.J. Cron as his replacement. Cron, coming off a down year in 2023 due to injuries, could be a cost-effective option for the Rangers. In 71 games last season, Cron slashed .248/.295/.434 with 12 home runs and 37 RBI. However, from 2018-2022, Cron posted a .260/.331/.490 slash line with consistent power numbers. If he can return to form in 2024, Cron would be a valuable addition to the Rangers’ lineup. Projected to get a two-year, $17 million deal, Cron’s discounted price makes him an attractive option for Texas.
