Alex Rios Acquired By Texas Rangers

Outfielder Alex Rios was placed on waivers by the White Sox, and yesterday Texas put a claim on Rios. But, it still seemed like a trade wouldn't be happening for the speedy outfielder. Just minutes ago, the story broke that the Texas Rangers, in light of losing Nelson Cruz to the PED scandal, had traded for Alex Rios, and would be receiving a PTBNL or cash for the speedy outfielder, according to Dan Hayes of CSN (via Twitter). 

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Alex Rios has been traded to the #Rangers.

— Dan Hayes (@DanHayesCSN) August 9, 2013

As I said, the Rangers lost Nelson Cruz to the Biogenesis scandal, and obviously needed a bat. They got a bat with Rios, who is hitting .277 with twenty-two doubles, two triples, and twelve home runs, while driving in fifty-five. Rios has a 0.9 WAR this season, which is a disappointment compared to the 4.6 WAR he put up in 2012. Rios is signed through 2014, with a team option for 2015. 

Opinion:


I believe the Rangers did a very good job of filling their gaping whole quickly, and I believe that Rios will perform better in a winning environment, just like he did last year with the White Sox, who finished 85-77 in the regular season. I believe that Rios will do a great job in Texas, and make the AL West a battle for the ages between the A's and Rangers. 

It was stated that the Rangers were not in on Rios during the non-waiver deadline, but I do believe they did have their eyes on him. If they were able to persuade the White Sox from dealing him in the off-season, I believe they really wanted him.  

All in all, the Rangers did what they needed to do to make themselves better. Rios will fill Cruz's hole quite nicely, which is all Texas is really asking. Good work, Rangers!