2009 NL All-Star Brad Hawpe of the Colorado Rockies cleared waivers and was designated for assignment this past Thursday. Now, playoff contenders are looking to snatch up the talented right field bat.
According to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, the Texas Rangers are interested in acquiring Hawpe, a Fort Worth native, as a replacement for Nelson Cruz, who is currently on the DL. If he can regain his 2009 form, he would also serve as a valuable extra bat in an already powerful Rangers lineup.
Hawpe hit .285 with a .903 OPS in 2009, but his numbers dwindled to .255 with a .776 OPS this season. He has played in just 88 games in 2010.
Colorado is 11 games out in the NL West, making them inclined to be sellers.
The Rangers may have competition from the Giants, who have also expressed interest but have a glut of players at first base and right field — Hawpe's two positions.
Rumors of White Sox, Red Sox, and Rays interest have also surfaced, says MLBTradeRumors.com.
Hawpe is owed $2.2 million for the remainder of the season.
