After dealing Justin Smoak and his right-handed bat for Cliff Lee, the Texas Rangers may have increased interest in reviving an offseason trade for Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell, according to WEEI Sportsradio Network’s Rob Bradford.
Both Smoak’s departure and corner-infielder Chris Davis’ offensive struggles may force the American League West leaders to acquire a player of Lowell’s caliber to at least platoon with the likes of Davis.
While Lowell is currently on the disabled list rehabilitating a strained hip, the Rangers are “monitoring” his progress closely in the event they cannot acquire a better replacement for Smoak.
Interestingly, moving Lowell could be an important factor for the Red Sox in freeing up roster space for another catcher or outfielder.
Anyone the Red Sox pick up before the trade deadline certainly cannot be sent down once Jacoby Ellsbury, Jason Varitek, Dustin Pedroia, Victor Martinez, and Jeremy Hermida return from the disabled list.
Lowell has put up a .213/.350/.308 batting line in just 91 plate appearances this season.
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