The White Sox traded Alex Rios to the one team that claimed him off revocable waivers, the Texas Rangers. The Rangers needed an outfield bat due to the suspension of Nelson Cruz.
it is reported that Chicago sends Rios and $1 million to the Rangers for a player to be named later.
Speculation is that player will be infielder Leury Garcia.
The 32-year-old Rios is hitting .277/.328/.421 with 12 homers and 26
stolen bases this season. Originally set to earn $12.5MM next year with a
$13.5MM option for 2015, Rios has a clause in his contract that
escalates both of those figures by $500K if traded, which is likely the
reason that the Sox included the $1MM in cash.
The 22-year-old Garcia is hitting just .192/.236/.231 in 57 plate
appearances this season. In Triple A this season, he hit .264, 4 HR 19 RBI 12 SB. He has been playing both shortstop (.927 field percentage) and outfield. The switch-hitter entered the season ranked as
the Rangers' No. 20 prospect, according to Baseball America. In their
scouting report, BA noted that Garcia is the top on the speed
scouting scale. He reportedly has the best infield arm in Texas' system.
His role may be a super utility player capable of handling
second base, shortstop and center field, according to BA.
With the disappointing seasons of current infielders Alexi Ramirez and Gordon Beckham, the White Sox are at least trying to add some depth in the field to compliment their above average pitching staff.
