Rangers Big Day
The Rangers made big moves on the final day before the deadline, acquiring C Jonathan Lucroy, OF/DH Carlos Beltran and RHP Jeremy Jeffress. Admittedly, this puts the Rangers in prime position to win the AL West. The Astros, who are 5.5 games back of the Rangers, were shopping around for a starting pitcher but failed to make any moves.
Lucroy will step in immediately as the starting catcher, filling a position that has been shaky thus far for the Rangers. He is great offensively, hitting nearly .300 this season for the Brewers. Interestingly, Lucroy was traded to the Indians two days ago but refused to waive his no-trade clause, a rare move in professional sports. This is sort of a slap in the face to Cleveland. Its not like the Indians are a bad team-- they are young, talented and comfortably ahead in the AL Central. Lucroy's decision to better deal them just furthers the undesirable image associated with city.
With Beltran, the Rangers get a veteran with extensive playoff experience. He can mentor younger players like Nomar Mazara who have no playoff experience. He is nearly 40, but is still putting up numbers hitting .304 with the Yankees this season.
Jeffress has been the least talked about of the three, but he is certainly no slouch. He owns a 2.22 ERA this year, and is in the top 5 in the NL in saves with 27. Jeffress has good stuff and will likely be used in the 8th to set up closer Sam Dyson.
Feldman's Wild Night
The Astros traded Scott Feldman to the Blue Jays yesterday, making room in the bullpen for rookie Joe Musgrove. After receiving the news, Feldman packed his bags and walked across the field to the visitors clubhouse, as the Blue Jays were in Houston to open a four game set. Feldman came in to face his former teammates in the 14th, allowing a single to Jose Altuve before giving up a walk-off double to Carlos Correa.
What a crazy day for Feldman. Coming in for the opposing team in your home ballpark, facing hitters who were your teammates just a few hours earlier. He probably had a lot on his mind, and the Blue Jays should cut him some slack. Not an easy situation.
Look for the Astros to continue their winning ways tonight against the Jays.
-Beats