Reports from several sources say that the Texas Rangers are in talks with relievers Adam Ottavino and Zach Britton. Even Grant of the Dallas Morning News does not think that the talks are aggressive at the moment. Let’s take a look at the years they both had in 2018 and see if they could be a fit for the Rangers.
Zach Britton played for both the Orioles and the Yankees in 2018, He had a combined ERA of 3.10 (3.45 for the O’s and 2.88 for NY). He struck out 34 and walked 21 in 40.2 innings pitched. He has a career ERA of 3.21, so his ERA was lower than his career. He was used as a starter from 2014 to 2016, and in 2016 he had 47 saves. Personally, I do not think he will come cheap enough for the Rangers to consider him during a rebuilding year unless they can get him for three to five years.
Adam Ottavino got into 75 games for the Rockies in 2018 and had an ERA of 2.43. You read that right. He struck out 112 while walking 36. He has played his entire career in the National League. He has a career ERA of 3.86, so he had a great 2018. He would be a great veteran pickup for the Rangers to help the young pitchers they will be using in 2019.
With guys like Connor Sadzeck, Nick Gardenwine and Jose LeClerc in the pen at the moment, Having Britton and his closing experience (for LeClerc) would be great. Ottavino would be a great addition overall and, if he pitched liked he did in 2018, he would be a huge trade chip for the Rangers later in the 2019 season. I wouldn’t be suprised if the Rangers did not land either of these guys, but I also wouldn’t be suprised if they wound up with both of them. My money would be on Ottavino, for the trade reason. Jon Daniels has been very adamant about bringing in young pitching prospects, and Ottavino would do that if he pitches well.
