The defending American League champions may get a whole lot better this offseason.
Texas is showing interest in former Red Sox catcher Victor Martinez, according to Jon Heyman.
Heyman reports that the Rangers would be interested in his bat, not so much his catching, meaning he’d likely make a semi-permanent move to first base.
The Rangers could use the upgrade at the bag as rookie Mitch Moreland started every game for the Rangers in the World Series. Chris Davis, who spanked 21 homers in 2009, hit just one homer and batted .192 in 45 games in 2010 and the 24-year-old was sent down to Triple-A Oklahoma City when the team traded for Jorge Cantu at the deadline.
The club has some question marks behind the dish this offseason, so one has to wonder why the Rangers wouldn’t give V-Mart a shot as the team’s starting backstop come opening day.
Texas had a solid catcher in Bengie Molina but the 36-year-old is a free agent and has hinted toward retirement. Upon arrival in July, Molina took playing time away from 34-year-old journeyman Matt Treanor, who is also a free agent this offseason. The Rangers also have 26-year-olds Max Ramirez and Taylor Teagarden under contract, although both struggled in the big leagues in 2010 and were optioned down to Triple-A for good late in the summer.
Heyman also reports that the Tigers, Red Sox and Orioles are also interested in Martinez.
