The Texas Rangers certainly do not want to stand pat as Tuesday's trade deadline rapidly approaches. If Monday night's blowout loss to the Los Angeles proved nothing else, it was that pitching help is sorely needed, both in the starting rotation and in the bullpen. On Tuesday, the Ranges are being connected to a number of potential pitchers, according to several reports.

John Morosi of FOX Sports reports that the Rangers have spoken to the Tampa Bay Rays about starting pitcher James Shields, who would likely be an upgrade over at least Roy Oswalt.

Sources: #Rays and #Rangers have had discussions about trade involving James Shields. @mlbonfox

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 31, 2012

Meanwhile, on the bullpen front, there are many teams that have an interest in Kansas City Royals closer Jonathan Broxton. Jon Heyman of CBS Sports reports that the Rangers are one of those teams.

#rangers still has interest in broxton. kc might not be overwhelmed by offers so far. could still stay.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) July 31, 2012

Broxton would add a nice layer of depth to the bullpen, regardless of his role. He is not the only bullpen target for Texas, of course. Tim Brown of Yahoo! Sports suggests the Rangers are also taking a look at Jared Burton of the Minnesota Twins.

Rangers are talking to Twins about reliever Jared Burton. 42 app, 2.40 ERA.

— Tim Brown (@TBrownYahoo) July 31, 2012

It remains to be seen whether the Rangers will be able to bolster their pitching before the deadline arrives on Tuesday afternoon.

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